Learn more about diabetes by uofl health

Diabetes sugar disease ill illness healthy health doctorDiabetes is an epidemic in our country. Kentucky, alone, has an estimated 600,000 residents diagnosed with diabetes. The burden is great. It is associated with complications such as heart disease, stroke, blindness, kidney failure and lower limb amputations. In 2012, it is estimated that $3.85 billion was lost in Kentucky due to total medical costs, lost work and lost wages.

The statistics continue to be staggering. It is estimated that 1 in 3 people in Kentucky have prediabetes, a condition in which the blood glucose (sugar) is higher than it should be but not high enough to diagnose diabetes. Most people don’t even know they have prediabetes, since there are typically no symptoms. If nothing is done, a third of these people will develop type 2 diabetes within five years.

But there is something we can do!

The National Diabetes Prevention Program (NDPP) is a lifestyle change program recognized through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that has proven to cut the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by HALF in those who have prediabetes. Studies show that by losing 5-7 percent of body weight, by eating healthier and increasing physical activity, can help prevent or delay type 2 diabetes–which is exactly what the NDPP promotes.

One of the best ways to stop the diabetes epidemic is to PREVENT it.

Take the first step–visit doihaveprediabetes.org and take the 1 minute risk test today!

For more information on prediabetes or to learn about University of Louisville Physicians Diabetes and Obesity Diabetes Prevention Program, call 502-588-4499 or visit http://www.uoflphysicians.com/diabetes-and-obesity-center.

 

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Article by: Beth A. Ackerman, R.D.

Beth Ackerman, R.D., is a registered dietitian and a certified diabetes educator with the UofL Physicians – Diabetes and Obesity Center. Beth is on the team of educators of the ADA-approved diabetes education team at UofL Physicians. She has counseled people with diabetes for more than 25 years. Ackerman serves as the Diabetes Prevention Program Workgroup co-chair for the Kentucky Diabetes Network and volunteers at Camp Hendon, a diabetes camp for children.

All posts by Beth A. Ackerman, R.D.
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