This November, help us raise awareness of the diabetes epidemic in our country. According to the American Diabetes Association, "of the 34 million adults with diabetes, 27 million were diagnosed and 7 million were undiagnosed."
Do you know the three types
of diabetes?
Type 1 diabetes is generally diagnosed in adolescence but people can develop it at any age. People with type 1 diabetes must take insulin every day because they can't make insulin or make very little insulin on their own. Approximately 5-10% of the people who have diabetes have type 1.
Type 2 diabetes is most commonly diagnosed in older adults; however in recent years, with the rise of childhood obesity, type 2 diabetes cases have been rising in younger people.
People with type 2 diabetes can't use insulin properly and can't regulate blood sugar levels. About 90-95% of people with diabetes have type 2.
Gestational diabetes develops in pregnant women. It can affect the health of both the mother and baby. Expectant mothers can manage their gestational diabetes by eating healthy foods, exercising and sometimes with medication. Typically, after pregnancy blood sugar returns to normal soon after delivery. Although, this can mean having a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes in the future.
Diabetes symptoms can vary and, in some people, may not appear at all. However, here are some common signs to look out for:
- Increased thirst
- Extreme hunger
- Unexplained weight loss
- Frequent urination
- Fatigue
- Blurred vision
Do you know your risk?
