Every November, we come together to recognize Diabetes Awareness Month. It’s a time to raise understanding about one of the most common chronic health conditions in the U.S. Diabetes affects millions of Americans, but many people don’t know they are at risk. With early detection, healthy habits, and check-ups, diabetes can often be managed and, in some cases, prevented.
What is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a disease that occurs when your blood glucose, also called blood sugar, is too high. It develops when your pancreas doesn’t make enough insulin, or when your body doesn’t respond properly to insulin. Over time, this causes sugar to build up in your bloodstream, which can lead to serious health issues like heart disease, kidney damage, nerve damage, and vision loss. Understanding how diabetes develops is the first step toward prevention and management.
How Common is Diabetes?
This disease is common. According to the American Diabetes Association, more than 38 million people have diabetes, and nearly 98 million people have prediabetes. Each year, about 1.4 million Americans are newly diagnosed. These numbers are more than just statistics; they represent family, friends, and members of the community. That’s why awareness and knowledge about prevention matters so much. At Community Health Centers, we’re committed to helping those affected by diabetes through services such as education, screenings, and support.
Type 1 vs Type 2: What’s the Difference?
There are two main types of diabetes:
- Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease where your immune system attacks the cells in your pancreas that make insulin, leaving your body with little to no insulin left. Type 1 diabetes is most commonly diagnosed in children and young adults; however, it can appear at any age. People with type 1 diabetes need insulin every day.
- Type 2 diabetes is the most common type of diabetes. It occurs when your body doesn’t use insulin properly. You are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes if you have a family history of the disease or if you have risk factors such as being overweight or obese. It develops most commonly in middle-aged and older adults but is increasingly seen in younger people.
Understanding Prediabetes
Prediabetes is a warning sign of type 2 diabetes. It’s a sign that your blood sugar levels are elevated, but not enough to be diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Healthy blood sugar levels are 70 to 99 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL), but if you have prediabetes, your levels are typically 100 to 125 mg/dL. Lifestyle changes can help reverse or manage prediabetes, such as increasing your physical activity and adjusting your eating patterns and habits.
Early Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore
Diabetes can develop slowly, so it’s important to be aware of some warning signs. Talk to your healthcare provider if you notice:
- Increased thirst
- Fatigue
- Frequent urination
- Blurred vision
- Unexplained weight loss
- Slow-healing cuts and sores
- Numbness or tingling in your hands and feet
How to Prevent and Manage Diabetes
Taking care of your body and making small, consistent changes can make a big difference:
- Eat balanced meals: Choose fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and limit sugary drinks and processed foods.
- Stay active: Aim to move your body for at least 30 minutes each day.
- Get regular check-ups: This can help catch a diagnosis early.
- Find support: Managing diabetes is easier when you have a community behind you.
Take the First Step Today
If you’re wondering where to start, start small. Understanding the warning signs, making simple lifestyle changes, and undergoing regular check-ups can help awareness turn into action, and action into prevention. Visit your local Community Health Center to talk to a healthcare provider about your risk, get screened, or learn more. Your health matters, and we are here to walk this path with you.