November is Diabetes Awareness Month

November is designated American Diabetes Awareness Month by the American Diabetes Association (ADA). Diabetes affects nearly 30 million people in the United States which is ten percent of the total population. There are 86 million more people who have pre-diabetes, and are at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes during their lifetime.

There is no cure for diabetes, but there are many ways for people who have been diagnosed with the disease to live long, healthy lives, if it is controlled properly. Learning to live with diabetes is one of the most important components for managing the disease. Proper nutrition, regular physical activity, daily blood sugar monitoring, and taking medication to control diabetes are some of the ways that complications can be prevented. Uncontrolled diabetes is the leading cause of blindness, non traumatic amputations, kidney disease and increased risk for heart attacks.

During the month of November, the ADA sponsors events around the country helping to raise awareness about the risk factors and the warning signs of diabetes. For more information on events taking place, please see the American Diabetes Association’s website at www.diabetes.orgDiabetes Awareness.

It is important to have regular medical exams to manage diabetes successfully.To schedule an appointment with a physician or nutrition expert, please call Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center at 718-670-5486.

 

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.