Over 38 million Americans are living with diabetes. It continues to be one of the fastest growing chronic conditions in the world. One in three Americans aged 65 and older is living with diabetes (16.5 million seniors). Risk factors include age, a family history of diabetes, not getting enough physical activity and being overweight/obese. Diabetes is also more common in certain ethnic groups.
The American Diabetes Association® (ADA) recommends that adults aged 35 and older get screened regularly, regardless of risk factors.
Diabetes is a complex problem that causes blood glucose (blood sugar) levels to rise higher than normal.
The three most common types of diabetes:
TYPE 1 DIABETES: In this type of diabetes, the immune system mistakenly destroys the beta cells in the pancreas that make insulin. When enough beta cells are gone, the pancreas stops making insulin or makes so little you need to take insulin to live. Along with insulin, a healthy diet and physical activity are part of managing Type 1 diabetes. Type 1 diabetes develops most often in young people but can appear in adults.
TYPE 2 DIABETES is the most common type. It develops when the body does not use the insulin it makes well or does not make enough insulin. Managing type 2 diabetes includes a healthy eating plan, physical activity, and medication.
GESTATIONAL DIABETES (GDM) develops during pregnancy. After giving birth, blood glucose levels may return to normal. If they do not, the individual is considered to have Type 2 diabetes. Even if blood glucose levels return to normal, having had GDM increases the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life.
Prediabetes is diagnosed when blood glucose levels are higher than normal but are not high enough to be determined to be diabetes. Treatment includes lifestyle changes, which may prevent or delay Type 2 diabetes.
A crucial part of ADA’s work is spreading awareness . Early detection and treatment can significantly reduce the risk of developing complications.
Symptoms of diabetes can include:
Feeling very thirsty
Feeling very hungry (even though you’re eating)
Frequent urination
Blurred vision
Extreme fatigue
Cuts or bruises that heal slowly
Weight loss even though you’re eating more (Type 1)
Tingling, pain, or numbness in hands or feet (Type 2)
Be aware that the symptoms of Type 2 diabetes may be so mild that they may not be noticed.
In addition to recognizing symptoms, it’s also important to know your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. The ADA offers a free, 60-second Type 2 Diabetes Risk Test at diabetes.org/RiskTest. Those found to be at high risk should contact their doctor. The ADA also provides a list of National Diabetes Prevention Programs to learn about preventing or delaying Type 2 diabetes.
It takes all of us to end diabetes and support our loved ones who are impacted. Bringing the community together to raise awareness, connect people affected by diabetes, and support research, education and prevention efforts. This spring, the ADA will host its walkathon-style fundraiser event:
Step Out® Walk: Hawaii, Saturday, March 21
Kapi‘olani Regional Park, 3840 Paki Ave., Honolulu
The walk is free to attend. All are encouraged to register at diabetes.org/StepOutHawaii.
AMERICAN DIABETES ASSOCIATION –HAWAII CHAPTER (nonprofit)
1670 Makaloa St., Unit 235, Honolulu, HI 96814
808-201-1304 | SYamada@diabetes.org
diabetes.org/local/hawaii
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