Neighborhood environment can increase risk of diabetes

Between 2000-2012, a group of 5,124 individuals ages 45-84 years participating in the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis who did not have type 2 diabetes at baseline had five clinical examinations. Their access to neighborhood resources, including food stores more likely to sell healthier foods and recreational facilities, along with the walking environment and the social environment for safety and social cohesion, was identified using surveys and GIS (geographic information system) technologies.