Diabetes Facts
Diabetes is the country's fastest growing public health problem. The number of people with Type 2 diabetes in the United States has doubled in the past two decades, to an estimated 25.8 million or 8.3% of the population (http://www.cdc.gov/). Over 7 million of these people are undiagnosed with their disease. An estimated 79 million people in the United States have pre-diabetes that may progress to diabetes without weight loss and increased exercise. Type 2 diabetes can be prevented!
Diabetes comes in several forms, all characterized by elevated levels of sugar in the blood. Some 90-95% of all cases are Type 2 diabetes, which is largely associated with an inactive lifestyle, weight gain, family history, and age. Type 1 diabetes, which is thought to stem more from genetic, autoimmune illness and environmental factors, affects a smaller number and has not risen significantly in recent years. Diabetes can also occur during pregnancy, which is called Gestational diabetes. Having Gestational diabetes can also put you at higher risk for developing Type 2 diabetes later in life.
It is important to see your doctor for yearly physicals, particularly if you are at risk for developing diabetes. Some common symptoms of diabetes, or high blood sugar, include excessive thirst, increased urination, fatigue, excessive hunger, and blurred vision. If you experience any of these symptoms you should see your physician right away. Without adequate treatment, diabetes can lead to heart disease, blindness, strokes, kidney failure, disease of the nervous system and possible amputations.
The diabetes specialists at KVCH are working towards helping those diagnosed with diabetes or pre-diabetes to effectively manage the disease through comprehensive education.
For more information please contact Mary Jo Morrissey, MS RD, or Pamela Dick, MS, RD at 509-962-7373.
Helpful websites to keep you healthy:
American Diabetes Association www.diabetes.org
MyPyramid - Food Guide Pyramid www.mypyramid.gov
Shape Up Kittitas County www.shapeupkc.org
