November – American Diabetes Month

11/4/2015

November is American Diabetes Month, which is an annual campaign that focuses on increasing awareness and focusing attention on the issues surrounding diabetes.

Facts & Stats  [1]

  • Diabetes affects nearly 30 million children and adults in the U.S. today – nearly 10% of the population.
  • Another 86 million Americans have prediabetes and are at risk for developing type 2 diabetes.
  • Diabetes nearly doubles the risk for heart attack and for death from heart disease.
  • Diabetes is the leading cause of kidney failure.
  • Diabetes is the leading cause of new cases of blindness among working-age adults.
  • The American Diabetes Association estimates that the total national cost of diagnosed diabetes in the U.S. is $245 billion.
  • 1 in 5 health care dollars is spent caring for people with diabetes.

Diabetes Prevention Tips [2]

If you are overweight, have high blood pressure, or are age 45 or older, you are at higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The good news is that making healthy changes can greatly lower your risk. Here are tips on how to help prevent type 2 diabetes:

  • Choose healthy foods and reduce portion sizes.
  • Watch your weight carefully.
  • Get moving! Add more activity daily until you reach a minimum of 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week.
  • Brisk walking is a great way to be active. Walk slowly for a few minutes to warm up then increase your speed over time.
  • Make a plan – plan your meals ahead of time to avoid reaching for unhealthy options.