Objective: The increased rate of diet-related chronic conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia, has been alarming. These conditions often co-occur, and their management has been a burden on the healthcare system and economy. If remain untreated, their combined effect can lead to more severe health outcomes. Patients with lack or limited access to healthcare are at higher risk for morbidity and mortality caused by the combined effect of these diet-related chronic conditions. The aim of this study was to assess the co-occurrence of diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia among a group of uninsured adults living in South Florida.

Methods: A retrospective analysis of deidentified electronic health records of 272 patients seen within a 4-week timeframe in a community care clinic in South Florida was performed. The dataset excluded all the protected health information elements and included patients` demographics, anthropometrics, laboratory results, medications, and relevant past medical history. Descriptive and binary statistical analysis were used for sample characteristics and co-occurrence assessment.

Results: Overall, 23.9% of patients had a diagnosis for diabetes, including females (n=37) and males (n=28). The mean age was 55.58±11.52 years. Bivariate analysis showed 70.8% co-occurrence of diabetes and hypertension. Co-occurrence of diabetes and dyslipidemia was 64.4%. All combined, 49.2% of patients with diabetes had both hypertension and dyslipidemia.

Conclusions: The results of this study showed a high co-occurrence rate of diet-related chronic conditions among uninsured patients. Multidisciplinary community-based interventions and improved access to healthcare services may help with prevention and management of these conditions among uninsured patients. Keywords: Nutrition, Diet, Diabetes, Prediabetes, Chronic Conditions, Hypertension, Obesity, Dyslipidemia