Diabetes is one of the leading causes of disability and death in the United States. It can cause blindness, nerve damage, kidney disease, and other health problems if not controlled.
Currently, there are more than 30 million people in this country living with diabetes, which means that one out of 10 Americans has diabetes. Additionally, there are another 84 million adults in the U.S. that are at a high risk for developing type 2 diabetes.
These numbers are staggering, but there is good news. People who are at risk for developing diabetes can lower their risk by making lifestyle changes like eating healthy, exercising, and losing weight.
Type 2 diabetes is treatable and can be avoided if people are willing to adopt healthier habits. Therefore, diabetes awareness is vitally important considering the high number of Americans at risk.
If you or someone you know exhibits an increased possibility for developing type 2 diabetes, here are a few simple ways you can protect yourself:
- Make small changes like taking the stairs instead of riding the elevator
- See your doctor for regular check-ups and encourage your family and friends to do the same.
- Make sure your doctor is checking blood pressure and cholesterol.
If you are committed to spreading awareness about diabetes, you should also consider asking doctors and nurses to be leaders in your community by speaking about the importance of healthy eating and physical activity.