The arrival of November signals an important observance for anyone suffering from or at risk of Diabetes…and we’re not talking about Thanksgiving.
National Diabetes Month kicks off this week, serving as an important reminder that we all can help prevent the debilitating disease and get closer to finding a cure.
The stakes are high
Today, less than 10% of Americans have diabetes, but health care officials warn of a looming epidemic. Last week, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released the results of a study forecasting that by 2050, one in every three people – more than 30% of the population – will be at risk for contracting diabetes.
Even today, the CDC estimates there are more than 57 million Americans with either pre-diabetes or metabolic syndrome, which means they are already displaying impaired glucose tolerance and impaired fasting glucose levels. More than 90% have no idea they have the condition.
Early diagnosis is critical. Studies have clearly shown that proper management of blood glucose can reduce the risk of diabetes complications by as much as 70% for some conditions, such as diabetic retinopathy. It has never been more critical to help educate the public and increase awareness regarding diabetes and pre-diabetes.
What you can do to take part in National Diabetes Month
If you have diabetes, pre-diabetes or metabolic syndrome, you’re in a unique position to help increase awareness, especially among your circle of friends and family members. Here are some ways you can help:
Talk to your family members– Family history is an important risk factor. Most people who are diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes also have one or two family members with the disease. Consider also that the age of adult-onset diabetes is getting younger. Help your family members understand potential health complications and risks, and explain that three critical factors matter the most in preventing diabetes:
- A balanced, healthy diet rich in vegetables, and low in carbohydrates and sugars of all types
- Regular exercise of approximately 30 minutes per day, 5 days a week
- Maintaining a healthy weight, with special focus on limiting belly fat
Talk to friends– Nothing is more powerful than a personal story you share with a friend or colleague. Misconceptions about diabetes abound. With millions of people at risk, and less than 90% aware they are in the danger zone, awareness is so important. For example, most people don’t realize that preventing or delaying diabetes is possible by losing just 5% to 7% of your body weight.
Get involved– A number of major health care organizations have both awareness and fundraising campaigns going on this month. Consider lending your time, talent or treasure to boost education and research. Consider these options:
- American Diabetes Association– Awareness and fundraising: StopDiabetes.org
- Diabetes Research Institute Foundation – Awareness and fundraising: BePartoftheCure.org
- National Diabetes Education Program– Several awareness campaigns, including a Facebook promotion this month
- Awareness for specific complications – Several national health care organizations are promoting awareness surrounding complications, such blindness (American Optometric Association) and gum disease (Academy of General Dentistry).
Lead by example– It’s easy to allow life’s daily demands to get you off your personal health care plan. A busy lifestyle, stress, illness … all of these interrupters can take their toll. Don’t let diabetes get control of your health. Take this opportunity during National Diabetes Month to recommit to the lifestyle – including diet, exercise and medications – that your doctor recommends for a long and happy life.
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