Roughly 23.6 million people in the United States have diabetes,
however, 5.7 million are unaware they have it. In fact, by the time diabetes is
diagnosed, most individuals already have had diabetes for 7 to 10 years. Nearly 7 million people have a condition known as prediabetes, and without significant lifestyle changes will develop diabetes.
The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services and the
Missouri Patient Care Review Foundation has identified diabetes prevention and
control as a priority to improve the health of Missourians.
What is Diabetes?
Diabetes is an elevation of blood sugar resulting from the
body’s inability to make or properly use insulin. There are three types
of diabetes:
Type 1 – The body does not make insulin.
Ten percent of those with diabetes are Type 1.
Type 2 – The body makes insulin, but
does not make enough of it or may not use it properly. Ninety percent of those
with diabetes are Type 2.
Gestational Diabetes - This is a from of glucose intolerance diagnosed during pregnancy.
The goals of treatment are to keep blood sugar (glucose) levels within normal limits during the pregnancy, and to make sure that the fetus is healthy. High blood sugar levels often go back to normal after delivery. However, women with gestational diabetes should be watched closely after giving birth and at regular doctor's appointments to screen for signs of diabetes. 40 to 60 percent of women with gestational diabetes develop diabetes within 5 - 10 years after delivery. The risk may be increased in obese women.
Have given birth to a baby weighing more than 9 lbs
High blood pressure
Stress of illness or injury
Symptoms
Increased thirst or hunger, frequent urination
Fatigue
Blurry vision
Numbness or tingling of the hands and feet
Frequent infections, slow healing wounds
Problems with sexual function
Slow healing cuts or sores
Early detection is the key. The most common symptom of elevated
blood sugar is no symptom at all. Diabetes does not necessarily make you feel
bad. If you are at risk for diabetes or have any of the above symptoms, get
your blood sugar checked.
A Future with Diabetes
While it’s true that there is no cure for diabetes, you
or your loved ones don’t have to suffer with this progressive disease.
People living with diabetes can lead an active, healthy and fulfilling lifestyle,
and the Capital Region Diabetes Management Center will provide you with the
support to do so.
Contact Us
Call the Diabetes Management Center at 573-632-5090 for more
information.
