Only You Can Prevent...Diabetes

Filed in archive Lifestyle on September 28, 2006

Never in history has it been more important to guard our health. Diabetes cases increase by the thousands daily, and experts agree that many cases of Type 2 are in fact preventable. It's up to us.

...we have seen the incidence of Type II diabetes in our communities mushroom to a point where we are serving over 3,800 diabetic patients collectively, and thousands more who are at risk. Yet even in the midst of widespread suffering, much of it unnecessary, there are reasons for optimism.

With proper education and support, our patients can make the diet and lifestyle changes that can prevent the onset of diabetes and avoid or delay its most dangerous and costly complications. Studies have shown this to be the case, and we know it first hand, because when we have been able to engage patients in their own care by teaching them how to check their own blood sugar, eat healthier foods, get more exercise, and come in for regular care, they generally do better. If these services were the norm for our patients, and people like them across the country, we are confident that many more could live healthier and longer lives than the media have portrayed.

We desperately need to increase the awareness of both doctors and patients in how to prevent and manage diabetes. What are you doing to help?

(Photo Source: PAMF)