The devastation diabetes is taking on the Latino population can seem debilitating, but physicians treating the Latino community are taking a stand and urging patients to arm themselves and fight back.

The statistics are startling. Currently there are just over 10 percent of Latinos in the U.S. who have diabetes. Latinos are 64 percent more likely to develop type 2 diabetes than all other groups according to the Center for Disease Control.

Dr. Genaro Romo, DDS knows first-hand the damaging effects diabetes can have on his patients. He makes a point to ask if patients are diabetic during his initial consultation. Latinos living in the U.S. are exposed to a diet of increased sweets, which combined with heredity factors, could explain the increasing number of Latinos with diabetes and dental problems, said Romo.

“If they say their parents or grandparents have diabetes, that’s a red flag,” said Romo. “Before I do an exam I specifically ask, ‘Are you a diabetic?’ What we’re seeing is a good percentage of patients coming in and telling us they have diabetes.”

Coming into for regular visits and practicing good oral hygiene are keys to minimizing the effects of diabetes, said Romo.

“A good physician will mention the connection between diabetes and oral health; it’s important to practice good hygiene and follow-up,” he said.

One mistake Romo sees patients make is changing their routine for dental visits, and this can be dangerous. When diabetic patients skip meals, their blood sugar level can dip and they could become hypoglycemic, which Romo tries to avoid since many of those patients can become dizzy and experience fainting spells.

“Never alter your routine unless a physician tells you,” said Romo. “When I ask them ...