What is diabetes?
Diabetes is a group of diseases in which high levels of blood glucose are present as a result of defects in insulin production or insulin action. There are three types of diabetes: type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes. Among adults, type 2 diabetes is most common. When we eat food it is broken down into glucose that our body uses for energy. For people with diabetes, their body develops insulin resistance and the lower levels of insulin prevent the glucose from entering their cells.
Who is at risk for type 2 diabetes?
Type 2 diabetes is the most common type among diagnosed adults, accounting for 90-95 percent of the cases. Risk factors contributing to diabetes are:
- Older age
- Obesity
- Physical inactivity
- Family history of diabetes
- History of gestational diabetes
- Impaired glucose metabolism
- Race/ethnicity (African American Hispanic and American Indian have higher risk)
How is diabetes related to heart disease?
Without the necessary glucose levels in cells, cells do not get their proper level of energy and the amount of glucose in the blood increases. Over time, these high glucose levels damage nerves and blood vessels. People with diabetes are two to four times more likely to develop cardiovascular disease. They are also more likely to develop heart disease or have strokes at an earlier age than those without diabetes.
What are the health complications of diabetes?
Persons with diiabetes have a high risk of developing other serious health complications or even premature death. These complications include the following:
- Heart disease and stroke
- High blood pressure
- Blindness
- Kidney disease
- Nervous system disease
- Amputations
- Dental disease
- Complications of pregnancy
How can you prevent the complications of diabetes?
After receiving a proper diagnosis, persons with diabetes can go on to live normal lives. In order to reduce risk of the complications, these individuals should maintain an open dialog with their health care provider and receive routine exams. In addition, specific blood levels need be controlled and preventive care needs be used:
- Glucose control
- Blood pressure control
- Blood lipids control
- Preventive care for eyes, feet, and kidneys
What is the estimated health costs for diabetes in the United States?
In 2007, diabetes was estimated to have a total cost of $174 billion. Direct medical costs totaled $116 billion, while indirect costs (disabilty, work loss, premature mortality) totaled $58 billion.
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Source: Center for Disease Control, National Diabetes Fact Sheet 2007
