Diabetes is the country's fastest growing public health problem. The number of people with Type 2 diabetes in the United States has doubled in the past two decades, to an
estimated 25.8 million or 8.3% of the population. Over 7 million of these people are undiagnosed. An estimated 79 million people in the United States have pre-diabetes that may progress to diabetes without weight loss and increased exercise. Type 2 diabetes can be prevented!
Diabetes comes in several forms, all characterized by high levels of sugar in the blood.
Some 90-95% of all cases are Type 2 diabetes, which is largely associated with an inactive lifestyle, weight gain, family history, and age.
Type 1 diabetes, which is thought to stem more from genetic, autoimmune illness and environmental factors, affects a smaller number of people.
Diabetes can also occur during pregnancy, which is called Gestational diabetes. Having Gestational diabetes can also put you at higher risk for developing Type 2 diabetes later in life.
It is important to see your doctor for yearly physicals, particularly if you are at risk for developing diabetes.
Common symptoms of diabetes (high blood sugar)
- excessive thirst
- increased urination
- ongoing fatigue
- excessive hunger
- blurred vision
- infections such as yeast, urinary tract, oral thrush
- non-healing wounds
If you experience any of these symptoms you should see your physician right away. Without adequate treatment, diabetes can lead to heart disease, blindness, strokes, kidney failure, disease of the nervous system and possible amputations.
The certified diabetes educators at KVH help those diagnosed with diabetes or pre-diabetes to effectively manage their disease through comprehensive education.
Helpful websites to keep you healthy
American Diabetes Association www.diabetes.org
The Washington Association of Diabetes Educators www.wadepage.org
The American Association of Diabetes Educators www.diabeteseducator.org/DiabetesEducation
Dlife diabetes online television show www.dlife.com
MyPlate healthy eating website www.choosemyplate.gov