Diabetes
in Adults
By Douglas Linford, D.O.
Diabetes Type 2 (previously called Adult Onset or
Non-insulin Dependent Diabetes) is a worldwide problem
and has reached epidemic proportions in the United
States and in most industrialized countries. Diabetes
is the 6th leading cause of death in the USA and a
leading cause of blindness, kidney failure, heart attacks,
stroke, and limb amputation.
Those at risk for developing Type 2 diabetes are those
who have some or all of the following risk factors:
|
| 1 |
Relatives with Type 2 diabetes (sister,
brother, parents) |
| 2 |
Are overweight |
| 3 |
A family background that is Native American, African
American, Hispanic,
Asian American, or Pacific Islander |
| 4 |
High blood pressure |
| 5 |
High cholesterol levels |
| 6 |
Physically inactive |
| 7 |
Polycystic ovary syndrome (females only) |
| 8 |
History of cardiovascular disease |
| 9 |
High blood sugars |
Who should be screened for Type 2 diabetes? It is recommended that those with diabetic risk factors
be screened at least every 2 years starting at puberty. For
those with average risk factors should be screened starting
at age 45.
Can anything be done to prevent or postpone Type
2 Diabetes? One study showed that participants who made lifestyle changes
(weight loss and exercise) reduced their chances of getting
Type 2 diabetes by 58%. Those in the study over 60 years
old reduced their chances of getting diabetes Type 2 by 71%.
You can reduce the complications of diabetes by keeping
your blood pressure controlled, taking aspirin daily, exercising
regularly, and keeping your blood sugar in normal ranges
either through diet alone or by diet and diabetic medication.
Please check with your health care provider before starting
on an exercise program or taking aspirin.
This article is for general information
only.
For specific medical information, please contact your health care provider.
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