November: National Diabetes Month

According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC) around 29.7 million Americans are diagnosed with diabetes, and it is likely that an additional 8.7 million Americans are living with diabetes without a formal diagnosis. In other words, around 38.4 million Americans have diabetes, which comes out to about 11.6 percent of the United States’ population. Because it is National Diabetes Month, we wanted to provide some information that can help you learn about and, if applicable, manage the disease.

How to Prevent Diabetes and Signs of Undetected Diabetes

There are several ways that you can prevent diabetes. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle by exercising, not smoking, and eating well can help. Increasing your fiber intake and avoiding packaged foods, in particular, can also help you avoid diabetes. Several symptoms of undetected diabetes include things like excessive thirst or urination, unusually intense hunger, and feelings of fatigue.

How Diabetes Can Affect Long-Term Health

Diabetes can affect your health in many ways long-term. For one, it might lead to heart problems, particularly heart disease. In addition, you might have eye or foot problems, which can lead to amputation or loss of sight. Some other side effects might include depression or nerve damage.

How to Manage Your Diabetes

If you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes, don’t worry—it’s possible for you to live a healthy life if you keep up with your health. We recommend that people with diabetes manage their blood sugar by eating balanced meals and exercising. Be sure to sleep well, too, and visit your doctor regularly to ensure you’re on track.

Want More Information about Diabetes? Contact the Center for Family Medicine
At the Center for Family Medicine, we are committed to you and your family’s health. That said, if you need more information about diabetes this National Diabetes Month, please reach out to us and our team of healthcare providers will be in touch.