November is American Diabetes Month. Currently, more than 37 million Americans
have diabetes—roughly 9% of the country's population.
Recognizing the disease as one of the most serious health risks in the
US signals a warning to take steps toward a healthier lifestyle and learn
the risks, warning signs and ways to prevent or live with diabetes.
Unfortunately, Louisiana makes up part of the "Diabetes Belt"
— along with Southern neighbors Texas, Mississippi, Alabama, Florida
and North Carolina. However, all news is not dire. New medications and
monitoring technology, as well as research on preventing and mitigating
effects of the disease continue to become available. It is important to
educate yourself about risks, warning signs and prevention.
Diabetes Risk Factors
A combination of genetics and lifestyle factors increase risks, particularly
for type 2 diabetes. Risks include:
- Overweight or obesity
- Age 50 and older
- Family history
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Physical inactivity
- History of gestational diabetes
- Stress
- Smoking
Check your risks with the American Diabetes Association risk assessment test.
Diabetes Warning Signs and Symptoms
These symptoms of diabetes are typical even though some people experience
mild symptoms that go unnoticed.
- Frequent urination
- Often feeling thirsty
- Frequent hunger, even though you are eating
- Extreme fatigue
- Blurry vision
- Cuts and bruises that are slow to heal
- Weight loss even when eating more (type 1)
- Tingling, pain or numbness in the hands/feet (type 2)
Type 1 diabetes occurs when your immune system mistakenly treats cells
in the pancreas, which creates insulin, as foreign invaders and destroys
them. It is typically diagnosed in young people but can develop in anyone
at any age.
Type 2 is most commonly diagnosed, and the risks for developing it increase
with age, being overweight and sedentary lifestyles. It results from the
pancreas not making enough insulin, the body resisting insulin or a combination
of the two.
Diabetes Prevention and Management
Prediabetes occurs if blood glucose (blood sugar) levels are high but not
high enough to be diagnosed with diabetes. Early treatment and lifestyle
changes can return levels to a normal range to prevent or delay type 2 diabetes.
- Diet adjustments—eat in moderation to reduce calories and fat intake
and include more fruits and vegetables; losing 10-15 pounds can make a
difference
- Stay active—get at least 30 minutes of physical activity five days a week
- Limit time sitting or lying down during the day
- Reduce stress
- Stop smoking
The Diabetes Self-Management Program at Thibodaux Regional Wellness Education
Center provides comprehensive diabetes services including WellFit Diabetes
Care that integrates medical care with wellness practices. For more information visit,
www.thibodaux.com/centers-services/diabetes-self-management/ or call (985) 493-4765.