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In recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month, the Southern Nevada Health District released local health data and announced a series of community events, health screenings and bilingual resources aimed at supporting Hispanic and Latino residents across Clark County.
“Hispanic Heritage Month provides an opportunity to recognize the importance of supporting the health and well-being of Hispanic and Latino residents throughout Southern Nevada,” District Health Officer Dr. Cassius Lockett said. “Local health data help us better understand the needs of the communities we serve and connect people with information, services and resources that can support healthier lives”.
Local health data highlight chronic conditions
According to 2023 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System survey data for Clark County, 15.3% of Hispanic adults reported having diabetes, compared with 10.2% of white adults and 11.9% of Black adults. The survey also revealed that 38.3% of Hispanic adults have been diagnosed with high blood pressure, while 40.1% were classified as overweight and 26.7% reported being physically inactive.
In addition, 35.6% of Hispanic adults reported high cholesterol, 12.5% reported smoking tobacco and 6.9% reported using e-cigarettes. Despite chronic health challenges, 67.6% of Hispanic adults reported having zero days of poor physical health during the preceding 30 days, representing a higher proportion than white adults at 58.6% or Black adults at 54.6%. Health officials emphasized that broader factors—including access to employment opportunities, nutritious food, health insurance and affordable housing—substantially influence overall community well-being.
Community events and free health screenings
To connect residents directly with preventive care, the Health District is hosting and partnering on several public health initiatives throughout October.
On Saturday, Oct. 24, the district will partner with the Las Vegas Valley Soccer League and Las Vegas Dynasty to present Copa de la Herencia from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Gary Reese Freedom Park. The free community event combines soccer games, family activities and entertainment while promoting smoke-free and vape-free environments for youth and families.
In addition, free blood pressure screenings, heart health education and prediabetes risk assessments will be provided on Saturday, Oct. 10, from 10 a.m. to noon at Mr. G’s Classic Barbershop on Pecos Road. Participants will also receive referrals to low-cost health clinics.
Bilingual diabetes education and support resources
The Health District is offering free Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support classes at the Main Public Health Center on Decatur Boulevard. Spanish-language classes are scheduled for Tuesdays, Oct. 20 and Oct. 27, while English-language sessions will take place on Wednesdays, Oct. 21 and Oct. 28. The district also hosts Living Well with Diabetes, a free Spanish-language support group for individuals with diabetes or prediabetes and their family members.
Broader Spanish-language health information on nutrition, physical activity and chronic disease prevention is available through the district’s Viva Saludable website. Residents seeking tobacco cessation assistance can access free, confidential support in Spanish by calling 1-855-DÉJELO-YA.