Nov 8, 2018

Diabetes Month

Archive.

November is National Diabetes Month. Diabetes causes health problems like kidney disease, nerve damage, and blindness. It is also one of the leading causes of death nationally. Over 80 million people in the U.S. are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes. However, with certain changes in diet and exercise habits, type 2 diabetes can be prevented.

Why is National Diabetes Month Important?

November is dedicated to helping raise awareness about diabetes. Most Americans either know someone with diabetes, or they themselves have diabetes. Increasingly, more and more people are at risk of developing diabetes, so it is important to educate those around you about how to prevent type 2 diabetes.
This month, people across the U.S. will raise their voices, helping those around them understand their risk factors for diabetes and how to prevent it.

Help by spreading the word

Many people are not aware of the risks and dangers of diabetes. There may be several people in your own life who are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes, but they may not know it.
Encourage your friends and family to make changes to their lifestyles that could help to decrease the risk of type 2 diabetes such as:
  • Exercising more – This is important for overall health, and can significantly lower the risk of type 2 diabetes.
  • Eating a healthy diet – Many of the risks associated with type 2 diabetes are linked to eating unhealthy foods that are high in sugar and sodium.
  • Getting regular checkups – A doctor will better be able to tell you what the risk of developing type 2 diabetes is by checking your blood pressure and cholesterol. If you have high blood pressure or cholesterol, your doctor may recommend ways for you to get it under control before the problem worsens.
Make a difference in your community by hosting an event to raise awareness. Consider asking local doctors and nurses to speak about the ways people can reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Start an exercise group with friends and family with the goal of having fun and keeping each other accountable while staying active. You can also do this in your workplace, encouraging light exercise during a lunch break.
Make sure your kids know the importance of exercise and healthy eating. If they develop healthy habits now, they’ll be more likely to maintain them as adults, and they will be less likely to develop type 2 diabetes when they get older.
You can also use social media like Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram to educate others about diabetes. Whatever methods you choose, do what you can to spread awareness about diabetes this month in your community.

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