There are currently 20.8 million children and adults in the United States, or 7 percent of the population, who have diabetes. While an estimated 14.6 million have been diagnosed with diabetes, unfortunately, 6.2 million people (or nearly one-third) are unaware they have the disease.
Diabetes is a disease in which the body does not produce or properly use insulin. Insulin is a hormone that is used to convert sugar, starches and other food into energy needed for daily life. The cause of diabetes continues to be a mystery, although both genetics and environmental factors such as obesity and lack of exercise appear to play roles.
Are you at risk for developing diabetes? Take the following quiz.
1. My weight is higher than it should be for my height.
2. I have a parent, brother or sister with diabetes.
3. I have had gestational diabetes or I gave birth to a baby weighing more than 9 pounds.
4. My blood pressure is 140/90 or higher or I have been told that I have high blood pressure.
5. My cholesterol (lipid) levels are not normal. My HDL “healthy” cholesterol is 35 mg/dl or lower or my triglycerides are 250 mg/dl or higher.
6. I am fairly inactive. I exercise less than three times per week.
7. My family background is African American, American Indian, Asian American, Pacific Islander or Hispanic American/Latino.
If you are age 45 or older and are heavier than you should be for your height, testing for diabetes and pre-diabetes is recommended. If you are an adult younger than 45 years and are heavier than you should be for your height and have any of the other risk factors listed, talk to your physician about your risk for diabetes.
Research shows that more than half of newly diagnosed cases of diabetes can be prevented with some fairly simple lifestyle changes and good blood glucose (blood sugar) management. Being physically active 30 minutes per day, five days a week and losing 5 to 7 percent of your body weight can make a big difference. Making wise food choices most of the time can assist in managing your weight. Small steps can lead to big rewards.
If you have diabetes and would like to attend an education class at Boone County Hospital, please talk to your physician about referring you to the Boone County Hospital Diabetes Center. Two Certified Diabetes Educators, Connie Buss, RD, LD, CDE and Cathy Addy, RN, CDE offer diabetes education at the hospital. In addition, a Diabetes Support Group is available the third Thursday of each month, 4 p.m. in the West Conference Room at the Boone County Hospital. Each month a different speaker presents a program on a topic related to diabetes. For more information, call (515) 433-8624. |