Diabetes Alert Day
You probably may not know this, but today, March 25th has been designated America Diabetes Alert Day. A one day blitz to inform the public about the seriousness of Diabetes. This is a topic that I take very seriously, since it hits close to home in my family. The information I've provided mostly deals with Type 2 since we have the power in preventing this disease.
Here are some facts worth noting according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC)*:
- Diabetes is the 6th leading cause of death
- 1 of 5 Americans are at risk of developing Type 2 and more than 6 million people don't even know they have it.
- The cost for caring for someone with Diabetes is $1 our of every $5 in total healthcare costs
- Type 2 Diabetes may account for ~90-95% of all diagnosed cases.
- Complications that can occur from Diabetes include heart disease, kidney complications, visual impairment, nerve damage and even amputation.
The 2 biggest risk factors are being overweight and your age (45 and over). Not only that but your chances increase if you have an immediate family member with Diabetes, High Blood Pressure, Physical INactivity, your ethnicity, to just to name a few.
What can you do? Start by changing your eating habits, adopt a healthy diet and be consistent with exercise. Studies have shown that by just losing 5-7% of your body weight can have an impact in preventing or delaying the onset of Type 2 Diabetes. If you think you are at risk, or know someone who might be, talk to your doctor and have him/her test your blood sugar as soon as possible. This could save you a lifetime of complications. Remember prevention is the best medicine!
I could go on and on, but actions speak louder than words. For more information about both Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes, I strongly urge you to check out the American Diabetes Association at www.diabetes.org
*Statistics: Center for Disease Control www.cdc.gov
Enjoy!
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