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Counties where residents suffer from higher diabetes rates across the Deep South often also face greater poverty, food insecurity and barriers to health care and physical activity, a new University of Mississippi study reveals.

The research, published in the Journal of Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities, mapped diabetes rates across 418 counties in five Southern states, finding geographic patterns that researchers say can help communities better understand the conditions surrounding chronic disease.

"Individual health behaviors tell us only part of the story," said Ruaa Al Juboori, Ole Miss assistant professor of public health and data analytics statistician. "Looking at diabetes geographically brings people's surroundings into view: access to nutritious food, places to exercise, health care and community safety.

"Our study shows where a high diabetes burden and gaps in community resources occur together. That broader view helps identify where closer attention and prevention resources may be needed."

More than 40 million Americans of all ages have diabetes, but the chronic condition is most prevalent in Deep South states such as Mississippi, Louisiana and Alabama.

Researchers from Ole Miss and South College reviewed counties in those states along with Georgia and South Carolina and mapped diabetes rates alongside characteristics of the communities themselves.

"Diabetes prevention is often framed as a matter of individual responsibility, such as eating healthier foods, exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy weight," said Precious Patrick Edet, assistant professor of public health.

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