Obesity is the leading cause of diabetes in Minnesota’s African-American communities, and also leads to hypertension (high blood pressure), heart disease and ultimately kidney failure – conditions that are prevalent among Black men.

Obesity is a serious health issue among Black men: More than 60 percent of us in the U.S. are identified as overweight; nearly, 28 percent of us are identified as obese (1). Obesity is the leading cause of diabetes among Minnesota’s African-American communities.

In Hennepin County, the prevalence of obesity among African Americans is nearly double the prevalence in whites and more than four times the prevalence in Asian populations (displayed in graph).

Learn more about obesity. Visit these related links:

• What you should know about obesity
• Understanding obesity and BMI
• DASH Diet