Diabetes Awareness: What You Should Know

The month of November is for raising awareness about Diabetes, a disease that affects millions of people worldwide. Understanding the ins and outs of diabetes is essential, and we aim to equip you with the knowledge you need to navigate this chronic disease successfully.

Diabetes is a chronic disease that transpires when the pancreas doesn’t produce enough insulin or when the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces. According to the CDC, over 30 million Americans have diabetes and over 84 million have prediabetes, meaning their blood sugar is higher than normal, but not high enough to be diagnosed as Type 2 diabetes.

There are two main types of diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is a chronic condition in which the pancreas produces little or no insulin. Type 2 diabetes is when the body does not properly use insulin and can’t keep the blood sugar at a healthy level. Some factors, such as age and family history may contribute to diabetes and are out of your control. However, lifestyle changes can help. Watching your diet and getting active are effective ways to lower your diabetes risks.

Several factors increase your risk of developing diabetes such as:

• Being overweight or obese. Extra weight puts strain on your body’s ability to use insulin to properly control blood sugar levels.
• Being over the age of 45
• Having a family history of diabetes
• Being physically inactive
• High blood pressure or high cholesterolEducate yourself on the signs and risks and get regularly screened.This November, make your health a priority and take action against diabetes.