As the state of Texas continues to grow in size and diversity a number of challenges continue to impact the health of residents. The Episcopal Health Foundation and SSRS conducted the sixth wave of the Texas Health Tracking Survey with a representative sample of Texas adult residents from October 18 through December 19, 2023 to understand residents’ experiences and perspectives on diabetes prevention.

Two thirds of Texans view diabetes as a major problem in the state (66%) with another 28 percent viewing it as a minor problem. Overall, one in every ten Texas adults reports currently having type II diabetes. Another 15 percent report having prediabetes. In all, almost half of Texas adults (46%) have diabetes experience in their household meaning they themselves or someone in their household has type II diabetes or prediabetes. Households with diabetes experience are also more likely to have difficulty paying for medical care.

When asked about a number of actions officials could take to prevent diabetes in Texas, those involving expanded access to health care and screening were more likely to receive votes of being very effective. Additionally, majorities believe that doctors and nurses (76%), food companies (70%), health insurance companies (67%), Texas state government agencies (65%), county and local government agencies (62%), and pharmaceutical companies (57%) should all have a major role in helping to reduce the rates of diabetes in the state.