November 2024
November is Diabetes Awareness Month, a time dedicated to educating the public about diabetes and the importance of prevention and management. The purpose of this article is to raise awareness of this chronic condition and to help you to understand your personal risk of developing diabetes.
Understanding Diabetes
Diabetes is a problem of metabolism that causes high blood sugar levels over time. There are three main types of diabetes:
- Type 1 Diabetes: An autoimmune problem where the body does not produce insulin. Insulin is a hormone that allows the body to absorb calories from food. This type of diabetes often develops in childhood or adolescence but can happen to adults as well.
- Type 2 Diabetes: Is the most common form, usually linked to lifestyle factors and inherited susceptibility. The body either becomes resistant to the insulin it is producing or doesn’t produce enough.
- Gestational Diabetes: This type occurs during pregnancy and is usually resolved after childbirth, though it can increase the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life.
The Impact of Diabetes
Managing diabetes requires attending to your diet, creating an exercise routine, and understanding your medications. The potential complications of uncontrolled diabetes include the development of heart disease, kidney damage, vision loss, and nerve damage. Controlling diabetes and preventing complications is hard work and affects not only the person with diabetes but can impact their entire family.
Raising Awareness
Diabetes Awareness Month highlights the importance of education and support. Here are some key points to know:
- Know the Symptoms: Early detection is important. Symptoms may include increased thirst, frequent urination, unusual tiredness, and blurred vision.
- Risk Factors: Type 2 diabetes is associated with obesity, sedentary lifestyle, age, and family history.
- Prevention and Management: Changing your lifestyle can effectively reduce your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Exercising 3-5 days per week, consuming a healthy diet, and maintaining a healthy weight are things you can do to reduce your risk. If you are diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes, sticking to your treatment plan is important for controlling your blood sugars.
As we observe Diabetes Awareness Month, I hope you will commit to learning more about your personal risk of developing diabetes.
For more information on diabetes management and resources, visit the American Diabetes Association. Your healthcare team at BIHS is happy to meet with you to discuss your questions about diabetes and to help you create a plan for your good health!
Laurie Anderson, APRN-C, CDOE