Diabetes is a disease characterized by a high level of blood glucose. It can be caused by a lack of insulin secretion by the pancreas (type 1 diabetes) or, more commonly, the body's resistance to the use of insulin by the cells. Diabetes caused by resistance to insulin is called type 2 diabetes, and is by far the most common type. Type 2 diabetes (also known as adult-onset diabetes) is becoming more and more common even in children 10 or younger.
African Americans, Native Americans, and Hispanic Americans have higher rates of diabetes than Caucasian Americans. The reasons aren't entirely clear - heredity, diet, and lifestyle may be factors.
- American Indians and Alaskan Natives have, on average, nearly three times the rate of diabetes as the American average.
- Adult Pima Indians have nearly a 50 percent rate of diabetes - the highest rate of any group in the United States.
- More than 10 percent of all African Americans have diabetes.
- The diabetes rate among Mexican Americans is double that of Caucasian Americans.
- Diabetes rates increase dramatically in minority groups after the age of 45.
Complications from diabetes - when it is not carefully treated - can lead to blindness, kidney disease, amputations, heart attack, and stroke. Diabetes is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States. Diabetes rates are on the increase. What is causing this serious increase? How can you protect yourself from the dangers of this very serious disease?
What Puts You at Risk?
There are common diabetes risk factors that may be more prevalent in some cultural groups.
- Being overweight is a factor in most cases of type 2 (often called adult onset) diabetes. Weight gain in middle age increases your risk.
- A high fat, high calorie diet leads to increased fat accumulation and problems with insulin absorption.
- A sedentary lifestyle increases diabetic risk.
- Lack of education about blood glucose control methods will make it more difficult to help yourself.
- Limited healthcare alternatives such as restricted access to doctors or unavailability of health insurance can keep you from getting help when symptoms first appear and then paying for needed treatment.
- Having parents or other close relatives who have diabetes - there is a significant heredity factor.
What Can You Do?
Take better care of yourself - it will take time and energy but will almost surely improve your quality of life.
- If you are overweight, or have any other high risks or symptoms, see your doctor and get tested.
- Lose weight, if needed, in a slow, systematic way over a period of time. Losing even a few pounds reduces your risks.
- Maintain a healthy diet-low in fat (25 to 35 percent of total calories) and moderate in calories.
- Be physically active every day, if possible. Activity helps your body use glucose and insulin as well as making weight management easier. Walking, swimming, biking, or other moderate activities can make a big difference.
- Learn methods and techniques to manage your blood sugar. A doctor or dietician can help.
- Insulin injections may be prescribed by your doctor - most people can inject themselves.
- Education - know the risks, symptoms, and diabetes management methods.
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