Diabetes is a very serious disease that’s not only sweeping our nation, but the whole world. The International Diabetes Federation just finished a study predicting that by the year 2030, the number of people with diabetes will increase from 336 million to 552 million; that’s a growth of more than 60% in less than 20 years.
Weight gain and lack of exercise are two of the main causes for type 2 diabetes; genetics also play a large role in a patient’s chances of developing diabetes. Patients between the ages of 40 and 60 are at the highest risk of developing the disease. If you’re concerned that you may be at risk for developing diabetes, these are some things that may increase your risk for developing type 2 diabetes:
-Overweight
-Having a close family member with diabetes
-Family background is Alaska Native, American Indian, African American, Hispanic/Latino, Asian America, or Pacific Islander
-Having high blood pressure or pre-diabetes
-Living an inactive lifestyle, exercising less than twice a week
-Having a history with cardiovascular disease
If one or more of these applies to you, you may want to visit a doctor to get checked for diabetes. If you want to reduce your risk of developing diabetes, there are a few goals you can set:
- Reach a manageable weight
- Exercise or try to be active for at least half an hour a day
- Make heart-healthy choices
- Reduce consumption of alcohol and sodium
K.G. Gauntt DPM
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