Diabetes Epidemic Impacts Millions
Diabetes is an epidemic that has an impact on the lives of over 20 million people in the United States. From 1980 through 2005, the number of Americans with diabetes nearly tripled and according to the latest statistics reported by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are over 54 million Americans who are pre-diabetic. Before individuals develop Type II diabetes, they almost always have pre-diabetes, which is when blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not yet high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes. Research has also shown that if action is taken to manage blood glucose at the pre-diabetic stage, individuals can delay or even prevent Type II from ever developing.
by Laurie B. Rosenblum, MPH
EBSCO Publishing's Health Library
George had just turned 70 when he began feeling thirsty, hungry, and tired more often than usual. After several weeks, he noticed that things seemed to look a bit blurry, his skin felt dry and itchy, and his feet felt tingly. At first he thought these were just signs of aging, but after another few weeks of feeling under the weather, he decided to see his doctor. Blood tests showed that he had type 2 diabetes. In addition, his eye doctor found evidence of some vision loss.
What Is Type 2 Diabetes?
Diabetes is a disorder caused by your body's inability to properly use and store glucose—a form of sugar that is the body's main source of energy. This condition can cause a wide range of health problems. There are three main types of diabetes: type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes. Type 1 diabetes (juvenile onset) usually develops in children and young adults, but may occur at any age. Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy.
This article will focus on type 2 diabetes (formerly called non-insulin-dependent diabetes) because it is the most common form of diabetes, typically occurs in people over age 40, is most common in those over 55, and overall, is a condition found in 15 million Americans. Type 2 diabetes tends to run in families, and additional factors contribute to its onset; the most common is being overweight. In addition, African Americans, Asians, people of Hispanic descent, and Native Americans have increased risk of developing diabetes.
Take Simple Steps for Diabetic Foot Health
Twenty-five percent of Americans with diabetes develop foot problems related to the disease. Diabetic foot conditions develop from a combination of causes including poor circulation and a loss of ability to feel pain, heat, and cold. Diabetics can develop minor cuts, scrapes, blisters, or pressure sores that they may not be aware of due to the insensitivity. If these minor injuries are left untreated, complications may result and lead to ulceration and possibly even amputation.
It is very important for diabetics to take the necessary precautions to prevent all foot related injuries. Daily observation of the feet is critical. When a diabetic patient takes the necessary preventative foot-care measures, he or she reduces the risks of serious foot conditions. The National Institute of Health suggests following simple everyday steps to prevent serious complications from diabetes. They include making healthy lifestyle choices to manage diabetes which include diet and exercise, checking and washing your feet everyday, keeping your skin soft and smooth, wearing shoes and socks at all times; protecting your feet from hot and cold; and keeping the blood flowing to your feet by putting your feet up and exercising your toes and ankles throughout the day.
Your healthcare provider should check the sense of feeling and pulses in your feet at least once a year. Your doctor will tell you immediately if you have serious foot problems and suggest possible treatments. The treatment of common foot ulcers and sores that individuals with diabetes tend to develop is part of the Las Palmas Wound Management Center's core-services. Wound assessment and the most advanced treatment technology, such as Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBO), ensure the healing necessary to recover from the serious side effects of diabetes. Each treatment plan is coordinated with the patient's primary care and specialty care physicians to ensure that each patient's needs are met. Click below for more information.
Traditional Dishes Made Diabetes-Friendly
Healthy eating helps reduce blood sugar and it is a critical part of managing diabetes. It is particularly challenging during the holidays for many people, not just diabetics, to limit sweets and other carbohydrates as well as fats and the use of alcohol. Fortunately, there are delicious diabetic-friendly recipes perfect for the whole family for the Holidays. Start with Roast Turkey with Fresh Herbs and Celery Stuffing. Top with Apple Spiced Cranberry Relish and add a side of Minced-Herb Baby Red Potatoes. End the festive meal traditionally with Creamy Pumpkin Pie. Click the link below for all recipes listed above, plus many more Heart Healthy options for any occasion.
