Prevention, Management | November set aside to raise awareness of diabetes

November is an important month for you, your friends and family.

We understand you might not think so now. But down the road?

November is American Diabetes Month, an annual event to raise awareness of the disease.

One goal of American Diabetes Month is helping everyone lower their risk of developing Type 2 diabetes and encouraging those suffering from any type of diabetes to manage their health effectively and avoid complications from the disease.

More than 30 million Americans - nearly 10 percent of our population - have diabetes. And the disease kills nearly 80,000 each year in this country alone.

Since it damages blood vessels, diabetes is a major factor in heart attacks and stroke. It also can lead to vision impairment or blindness and serious kidney disease.

Diabetes also damages the nerves, which can lead to tissue damage. Sometimes the damage is so severe amputation is required.

Some people are born with diabetes and must manage their condition throughout their lives.

But many others develop the disease later in life. You or your family may be at risk for this.

The good news is that you can cut your chances of developing Type 2 diabetes.

By far, the most common risk factor for developing diabetes is weight. The International Diabetes Foundation estimates at least 80 percent of all new cases of Type 2 diabetes are due to the individual being overweight or obese.

Another factor is lack of exercise. Skipping breakfast has also been linked with Type 2 diabetes.

The formula for preventing Type 2 diabetes?

East a healthy diet.

Increase your exercise

Eat a healthy breakfast.

More information on all three are available at diabetes.org.

No, you might not be afflicted with diabetes. No one in your family may have the disease.

But that's now. In the future? Who knows.

The best way to manage diabetes is to prevent diabetes. It's something we all need to think about.

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