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American Diabetes Month

Diabetes affects 387 million people worldwide—about 13 percent of Americans have diabetes.

While there are 2 main types of diabetes, type 2 diabetes is the major contributor to the impressive numbers above—and is potentially preventable through diet, exercise and control of one’s weight.

Type 2 diabetes used to be a disease of aging—we all slow down as we age, gain weight, and become more sedentary—the result is gaining weight in the form of fat. Disturbingly, we are seeing diabetes in younger and younger people all the time due to the increasing weight of the American population. The more body fat, the less able that the cells of the body are to use insulin from our pancreas—if the insulin doesn’t work as well, our blood sugar levels rise. High blood sugar can damage the eyes, the kidneys, and the heart. People with diabetes are at risk for blindness, kidney failure, and heart attacks and strokes. That’s why doctors are so concerned about preventing and treating diabetes.

When should I worry about diabetes?

  • Symptoms may include urinating more frequently, increased thirst, or blurry vision.
  • If your Body Mass Index (BMI) is over 25 (click here to calculate your BMI)
    • http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/educational/lose_wt/BMI/bmicalc.htm
  • If you have relatives that have diabetes

I have at least one of the above—what should I do?

  • Have your health care provider check for diabetes—a simple blood test (called Hemoglobin A1c) can not only tell you if you have diabetes, but can predict whether you might be at risk for developing it (sometimes called pre-diabetes).

Ok, I’ve found out that I have diabetes or am at risk for diabetes, what can I do?

  • University Health Services provides comprehensive care for diabetes and pre-diabetes including:
    • Medical care, including medications and other treatments
    • A registered dietician to help you construct an eating plan
    • Health Coaches, to help you overcome the obstacles that prevent you from living a healthy lifestyle

So, if it’s been a while since your last checkup, call 208-426-1459 and University Health Services can help you schedule one. We are the ON-CAMPUS health care provider for students, faculty, staff and their family members.