The American Diabetes Foundation and National Diabetes Month put the focus on the growing cost of diabetes on Americans’ health by promoting healthy lifestyle changes and reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes.
There are two main types of diabetes. Type 1 is an immune disorder typically diagnosed in childhood or young adulthood. Type 1 diabetics will take insulin and manage their diabetes for a lifetime. Type 2 diabetes, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), is often associated with lifestyle habits, including diet and exercise. It accounts for 90-95% of the 37 million Americans with the disease.
Understanding the disease, risk factors, and management are essential for better health and outcomes. Diabetes is manageable when diagnosed early. However, when left untreated, it can lead to serious complications affecting multiple organ systems in the body.
What is Diabetes?
After eating and drinking, the body converts the sugars from food into energy. The pancreas produces a hormone called insulin, which converts blood sugar into energy. With diabetes, the pancreas may produce too much or too little insulin – or none at all. As a result, blood glucose may rise, depriving cells in the body of much-needed energy.
Everyone can benefit from discussing their risk factors with their medical providers.
Whether you are “prediabetic”, were just diagnosed with diabetes, or have had it for some time, working with your medical providers for education, support, and creating healthy habits, can make a difference:
- Develop a healthy eating and activity plan
- Test your blood sugar and keep a record of the results
- Recognize the signs of high or low blood sugar and what to do about it
- If needed, give yourself insulin by syringe, pen, or pump
- Monitor your feet, skin, and eyes to catch problems early
- Buy diabetes supplies and store them properly
- Manage stress and deal with daily diabetes care
The American Diabetes Association has a quick, 60-second screening test to note risk factors for diabetes. Additional educational information on the CDC website: diabetes self-management education and support services
Ask your Carolina Specialty Care provider about diabetes at your next appointment.
Sources: American Diabetes Association, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Healthline.com
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