A Look into Diabetes

November is Diabetes Awareness Month. Although the month has passed, diabetes awareness should continue throughout the year.

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Diabetes is the 7th leading cause of death in the United States (CDC, 2017). Although more than 34 million people have diabetes,1 in 5 do not know they have it (CDC, 2017). Diabetes is a chronic disease that impairs the body’s production or response to insulin, leading to elevated glucose levels (hyperglycemia). Untreated, chronic hyperglycemia can lead to complications with the eyes, kidneys, nerves, and heart. Diabetes affects people in many different ways; therefore, it is an important topic of discussion.

Types of Diabetes

Pre-diabetes: While not considered diabetes itself, pre-diabetes increases the risk of developing type II diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. Pre-diabetes means that a patient has a higher blood sugar level than normal, while not typically showing any signs or symptoms (Mayo Clinic, 2020).

Type 1 and 2 Diabetes: Type 1 diabetes is a chronic condition in which the pancreas produces little to no insulin. This type of diabetes can also be referred to as juvenile or insulin-dependent diabetes. Insulin is a hormone needed to allow sugar (glucose) to enter cells and produce energy. With type 2 diabetes, the body either resists the effects of insulin or doesn't produce enough insulin to maintain normal glucose levels.

Gestational Diabetes: Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy (gestation). Like other types of diabetes, gestational diabetes affects how your cells use sugar (glucose). Gestational diabetes causes high blood sugar that can affect pregnancy and the baby's health (Mayo Clinic, 2020).

Prevention

Nutrition: Avoid high intake of red meat, sweets, and fried food; instead consume food rich in nutrients, fiber, and antioxidants (ex. fruits and vegetables).

Risk Factors: While there are risk factors that you do not have control over such as age, family, and history, one large factor that you do have control over is lifestyle (diet and physical activity).

Screening: For patients who do have diabetes get a yearly eye-exam, as diabetic retinopathy could worsen, and lead to blindness if it is not detected and treated early.

Advocacy

• Bring awareness to Native American, African American, and Hispanic communities where undiagnosed diabetes is more prevalent

• Raise awareness through social media: share facts and statistics from reliable sources (ex: National Diabetes Prevention Program and the American Diabetes Association)

• Attend a Diabetes Education Program hosted by UI Health which teaches clients how to cook meals, engage in physical activity, and provide information about the benefits of adequate hydration and sleep

COVID-19 and Diabetes

People with diabetes are more likely to have serious complications from COVID-19. Data from the New York State Department of Health shows that the fatality rate due to COVID-19 is second highest in persons who are having diabetes. High blood sugar levels combined with viral infections like COVID-19 can cause increased inflammation, leading to more severe health complications compared to those without diabetes.

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