Take care. Be well.
November
Diabetes Awareness Month: Let's Talk About The Bronx💙
November is Diabetes Awareness Month, and diabetes is something many of us know about firsthand. Whether it's a family member, a friend, or someone in the neighborhood, chances are diabetes has touched our lives in some way.
Did You Know? 💙
Black and Hispanic New Yorkers are more than twice as likely to be living with diabetes as White New Yorkers
16.4%
Black NYC adults
7.6%
White NYC
adults
16.0%
Hispanic NYC
adults
THE BRONX
15%
Bronx adults
are living with
diabetes
Sources: NYC Department of Health 2023 Community Health Survey (Black, Hispanic/Latino, and White NYC adults); NYC Department of Health, Diabetes and Health Inequities among New York City Adults (Bronx, 2022 data; published 2025).
These numbers tell us something important. Black and Hispanic New Yorkers are livving with diabetes at more than twice the rate of White New Yorkers.
And here in the Bronx, approximately 15 out of every 100 adults are living with diabetes.
But behind these numbers are real people—our families, friends, and neighbors. Access to affordable healthy food, regular medical care, and the support needed to manage diabetes can make a real diffrence.
So what are these numbers telling us?
Diabetes continues to affect Black communities at disproportionately high rates, including families right here in the Bronx. But these numbers tell us more than how many people are living with the diabetes.
The concern isn't just being diagnosed. It's also understanding the condition, getting the right care, and preventing serious complications.
Several factors can influence our risk of developing Type 2 diabets an our ability to manage it, including:
-
family history and genetics
-
the foods we eat, how they're prepared, and our eating habits
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physical activity and opportunities to stay active
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access to affordable, nutritious foods
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regular checkups, screenings, and early detection
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access to quality healthcare, medications, and diabetes education
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healthcare barriers, including experiences of discriminations or not having our concerns taken seriously
Diabetes can lead to heart disease, kidney disease, vision loss and amputations. But early detection, proper treatment, and ongoing support can help prevent or delay many of these ccomplications.
Knowing our risks is important. Knowing what we can do about them is just as important.
But Did You Know This? 💙
Black residents in the Bronx experience higher diabetes-related death rates than White residents? According to the New York State Department of Health, the diabetes death rate among Black Bronx residents was 57% higher than among White Bronx residents during 2021-2023.
These numbers are a reminder that diabetes awareness isn't just about understanding who's living with the condition. It's also about preventing serious complications and making sure people have access to the care and support they need.
24.6
Black Bronx Residents
Diabetes deaths per 100,000
15.7
White Bronx Residents
Diabetes deaths
per 100,000
What does this mean? The numbers represnt diabetes-related deaths per 100,000 residents, adjusted for differences in age between populations.
In other words, we're not just looking at how many people have diabetes. We're looking at how seriously the disease is affecting our community.
Diabetes can damage the heart, kidneys, eyes, and nerves, Without proper treatment and ongoing care, these complications can be life-threatening.
Why Are We Talking About This?
Because diabetes is more than a diagnosis. It's a health concern that affects many Black families, and understanding it can make a real difference.
We've talked about the numbers, but what happens when someone learns they have diabetes? Do they understand their diagnosis? Do they know what their blood sugar numbers man? Are they getting the information and support they need to manage their condition?
And what about those who don't know they're at risk?
Diabetes doesn't always cause noticeable symptoms, which means someone can be living with Type 2 diabetes or prediabetes without knowing it.
That's why we're having this converation. We want our community to understand the risks, recognize the warning signs, and knowing when to ask about testing.
Because knowing your numbers could be the first step toward protecting your health.
Okay, So What Can We Do?
We can't control every risk factor for Type 2 diabetes, including our family history. But there are things we can do to lower our risk, recognize warning signs and take better care of our health.
And it starts with knowing our numbers.
Know Your Numbers: Understanding Your A1C💙💙
What is an A1C Test?
You may have heard someone say,"My A1C is high". But what does that actually mean?
An A1C is a blood test that measures your average blood sugar level over approximately three months. It helps healthcare providers identify prediabetes, diagnose diabetes, and monitor how well diabetes is being managed.
Here's what the numbers generally mean for adults who aren't pregnant:
Below 5.7%
Normal Range
5.7—6.4%
Prediabetes
6.5% or higher
Diabetes range
These numbers are a guide, not a diagnosis on their own. If your A1C. is in the prediabetes or diabetes range, talk with your healthcare provider about what your results mean and what steps to take next.
So why are we seeing these differences?
There isn't one simple answer. Diabetes doesn't affect every community equally, and the reasons go beyond individual choices.
Think about it. How easy is it to find affordable, healthy food in your neighborhood? Can you get a doctor's appointment when you need one? What happens when medication is too expensive, or taking time off from work means losing pay?
These are everyday challenges that can make preventing and managing diabetes more difficult.
For many Black families in the Bronx, access to affordable healthcare, nutritious food, safe places to exercise and ongoing support can make a real difference.
That's why addressing diabetes isn't just about telling people to eat better or eercise more. It's also about making sure our communities have the resources and opportunities to live healthier lives.
Knowing Your Numbers Is Just the Beginning 💙
Getting screened matters. But so does understanding your results and knowing what happens next.
Whether you've been told you have prediabetes, recently diagnosed with diabetes, or have been managing it for years, dont't be afraid to ask questions.
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What does my A1C number mean for me?
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How often should I have my blood sugar checked?
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What can I do to help nmanage my blood sugar?
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Are there affordable medications, nutrition programs, or diabetes education classes available?
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If I'm having trouble managing my diabetes who can help me?
There is nothing wrong with saying "I don't understand. Can you explain that to me another way?"
Your health matters, and you deserve answers you can understand.
Diabetes Resources: Help Is Closer Than You Think 💙
Knowing your numbers is important, but knowing where to turn for help matters too.
Whether you need an A1C test, help managing diabetes, nutrition education, or assistance finding affordable, healthy food, there are resources available right here in the Bronx and throughout New York City.
We’ve gathered a few places to help you get started.
Where Can I Find Diabetes Care and Support in the Bronx?
NYC Health + Hospitals
Bronx locations include Jacobi, Lincoln, North Central Bronx, and Gotham Health centers.
Whether you need an A1C test, diabetes care, or help finding a primary care provider, NYC Health + Hospitals is a good place to start.
Call 1-844-NYC-4NYC (1-844-692-4692) to ask about available services, appointments, and insurance options.
Montefiore Einstein — Diabetes Care and Education
📍 3444 Kossuth Avenue, Room 460, Bronx
Montefiore’s Clinical Diabetes Center provides diabetes care, education, and support to help patients manage their condition.
Call to ask about appointments, diabetes education programs, and referral requirements.
Appointments & Referrals: 1-800-MD-MONTE (800-636-6683)
Website: Montefiore Einstein
Healthy Food Resources: Making Nutritious Food More Affordable 💙
NYC Health Bucks
Did you know you can get help purchasing fresh fruits and vegetables at NYC farmers markets?
SNAP recipients can receive $2 in Health Bucks for every $2 spent using SNAP benefits at participating farmers markets, up to $10 per day.
NYC Get the Good Stuff
Eligible SNAP shoppers can receive matching funds when purchasing qualifying fruits, vegetables, and beans at participating supermarkets.
These programs can help Bronx families stretch their grocery budgets while making healthier food choices.
What’s Happening in the Bronx This November? 💙
November is Diabetes Awareness Month! Looking for ways to learn more, connect with others, or make healthier choices? Here are a few community workshops and events happening right here in the Bronx.
Monday, November 9 | 1–2 PM
Healthy Swaps: Easy Recipe Makeovers
📍 EmblemHealth Neighborhood Care
254 E. Fordham Road, Bronx
Learn how to make everyday meals more blood-sugar-friendly using affordable ingredients. Includes a food demonstration and tasting.
Tuesday, November 10 | 10–11 AM
JASA Community Health Seminar: Diabetes
📍 Bay Eden Neighborhood Senior Center
1220 E. 229th Street, Bronx
A community seminar covering diabetes, prevention, and managing the condition.
Thursday, November 12 | 11 AM–12 PM
📍 R.A.I.N. Boston Secor Neighborhood Senior Center
3540 Bivona Street, Bronx
A Montefiore Einstein workshop focusing on diabetes and the importance of foot health.
Monday, November 23 | 1–2:30 PM
How to Read Food Labels to Improve Blood Sugar
📍 EmblemHealth Neighborhood Care
254 E. Fordham Road, Bronx
Ever looked at a food label and wondered what all those numbers mean?
This interactive workshop helps participants understand nutrition labels and make informed food choices when managing blood sugar. Includes a food demonstration and tasting.
November 14—World Diabetes Day💙
November 14 is recognized around the world as World Diabetes Day.
It is a day to raise awareness, support people living with diabetes, and encourage communities to learn more about prevention , early detection and access to care.
Learn more: World Diabetes Day.
Men's Health: More Than A Checkup 💙
November is also a time to shine a light on men's health.
Our fathers, brothers, husbands, sons, partners, and friends.
We often hear men being told to be strong, provide for their families, and keep pushing through whatever life throws their way. But how often do we stop and ask who's looking out for them?
From prostate cancer and heart health to stress, depression, and emotional well-being, there are conversations we need to have.
Especially in our Black communities, where health disparities and barriers to care can have serious consequences.
Taking care of your health isn't weakness. It's part of taking care of yourself and the people who love you.
Sources: American Cancer Society, Cancer Statistics for African American and Black People, 2025; National Cancer Institute and CDC, State Cancer Profiles: Prostate Cancer Death Rates, 2019–2023 (Bronx County and New York State; age-adjusted rates).
These numbers represent real people, families, and communities.
Did You Know?💙
67% HIGHER
Black men have a 67% higher rate of prostate cancer diagnoses than White men in the United States.
MORE THAN TWICE AS LIKELY
Black men are more than twice as likely to die from prostate cancer as White men.
RIGHT HERE IN THE BRONX
From 2019-2023, the Bronx had an age-adjusted prostate cancer death rate of 19.7 prostate cancer deaths per 100,000 men, compared with 15.4 statewide.
When Should You Get Checked💙
You don't have to wait until something feels wrong to talk about prostate cancer.
According to the American Cancer Society:
Age 40: Men with more than one close family member (father or brother) diagnosed with prostate cancer before age 65 should begin discussing screening.
Age 45: Black men and men whose father or brother was diagnosed before age 65 should begin conversation.
Age 50: Men at average risk should discuss whether screening is right for them.
Screening often involves a PSA blood test. It's important to understand what the test can and cannot tell you before deciding to have one.
What Are the Warning Signs?
Prostate cancer often has no symptoms in its early stages. But some changes shouldn't be ignored:
💙 Urinating more frequently, especially at night.
💙Difficulty starting urination or a weak stream.
💙Pain or burning when urinating.
💙Blood in the urine or seman.
💙Persistent pain in the lower back, hips, or pelvic area.
Remember these symptoms don't automatically mean cancer. Other prostate conditions can cause them too. But if you're experiencing them, don't wait for a routine screening appointment. Speak with your healthcare provider.
💙 Prostate Health Resources: Help Right Here in the Bronx
Have questions about prostate cancer screening, a family history of prostate cancer, or changes you’ve noticed?
Here are places in the Bronx where you can start the conversation.
Montefiore Einstein — Department of Urology
📍 1250 Waters Place, Tower Two, 9th Floor, Bronx, NY 10461
📞 718-920-4531 (Adult Urology Appointments)
Specialists provide care for prostate concerns and other urological conditions.
Montefiore Einstein Comprehensive Cancer Center
📍 1575 Blondell Avenue, Bronx, NY 10461
📞 718-920-4531 (Urologic Cancer Appointments)
Specialized care for prostate cancer and other urologic cancers.
📍 1400 Pelham Parkway South, Bronx, NY 10461
📞 718-918-5700 (Appointments)
NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln
📍 234 East 149th Street, Bronx, NY 10451
📞 718-579-4900 (Appointments)
Jacobi and Lincoln offer primary and specialty care. Ask about discussing prostate cancer screening or getting a referral to a urologist.
Don’t have health insurance?
NYC Health + Hospitals can help you explore affordable healthcare options. Call 1-844-NYC-4NYC (1-844-692-4692) to ask about appointments and available services.
💙 Finding Your Way Through the Holidays
For some, the holidays bring back beautiful memories. For others, they can be a painful reminder of someone who’s no longer here. Sometimes it’s both.
If you’re grieving this holiday season, here are a few things to remember:
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You don’t have to attend every gathering. It’s okay to say no or leave early.
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Keep the traditions that bring you comfort. Whether it’s cooking a loved one’s favorite dish, playing their favorite music, or sharing stories about them.
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Don’t feel pressured to be cheerful. You can have good moments and difficult ones on the same day.
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Stay connected. Reach out to someone you trust. You don’t always have to explain what you’re feeling.
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Ask for support when you need it. Grief support groups and counseling can provide a space to talk with people who understand.
And if you know someone who’s grieving, don’t assume they’re okay just because they seem to be keeping busy. A simple phone call, invitation, or check-in can make a difference
You’re Not Alone: Grief Support in the Bronx & NYC
Sometimes talking with family or friends helps. Other times, you may want to speak with someone who understands what you’re going through or connect with people who have experienced a similar loss.
Whether you’re grieving a spouse, parent, child, sibling, or someone else you love, support is available. You don’t have to wait until things feel overwhelming to reach out.
Calvary Hospital — Bereavement Support
1740 Eastchester Road, Bronx, NY 10461
718-518-2281
Support groups for people grieving a spouse, partner, child, parent, or sibling, including Spanish-language groups. Adult groups are virtual and may have a fee; children's and teen groups are free. No prior connection to Calvary is required.
VNS Health — Grief Support Groups
212-609-1900
Free online and occasional in-person grief groups, including groups for spouses, parents, siblings, and adult children. Spanish-language options are available. Contact the program to confirm eligibility and space.
VNS Health Grief Support
2600 Netherland Avenue, Bronx, NY 10463
718-884-5900
Offers a grief and bereavement group led by a licensed social worker, meeting as needed. Call for availability.
Riverdale Senior Services Counseling
Call or text 988 — available 24/7
Free, confidential emotional support and referrals to mental health services. You don't have to be in crisis to reach out. Help is available in multiple languages.
NYC 988 Support
From Our Kitchen to Yours
Oven Baked Baby Turkey Wings
🍂 Oven-Baked Baby Turkey Wings
Ingredients
-
Baby turkey wings, split into two pieces
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2 onions, chopped
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Bell's Seasoning
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2 cloves of garlic, chopped
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Fresh thyme sprigs
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Extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO)
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1 packet Lipton Onion Soup Mix
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Water
Directions
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Preheat your oven to 425°F.
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Pat the turkey wings dry with paper towels. Rub lightly with extra-virgin olive oil.
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Sprinkle the Lipton Onion Soup Mix over the wings and rub it in to coat evenly*.
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Combine the copped and garlic with the seasonings, then rub the mixture onto both sides of the turkey wings in a baking pan and fresh thyme srigs on top.
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Pour water into the pan, keeping the level below halfway up the wings.
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Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes, turning once, checking for tenderness and doneness. Uncover toward the end if you prefer a browned finish.
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Make sure the thickest part of the turkey reaches at least 165°F on a food thermometer before serving.
*optional, for lower sodium alternative, season with onion powder, garlic,powder, black pepper, and fresh thymeServing suggestion: Pair with roasted sweet potatoes and green beans for a satisfying holiday meal.
A Personal Note from CBTSI 💗
As we head into the holiday season, let’s remember that not everyone is experiencing this time of year in the same way.
Some families are looking forward to gathering around the table, while others are dealing with health concerns, financial challenges, or missing someone they love.
This is a time to look out for one another. Check on that neighbor you haven’t seen in a while. Call a friend or family member just to say hello. And if you’re the one who needs a little support, don’t be afraid to reach out.
At Community Bridges to Success Incorporated, we believe building a healthier community starts with caring for the people around us.
This holiday season, let’s make room for kindness, understanding, and one another.
Take care. Be well. 💙
Community Bridges to Success Incorporated
