American Diabetes Association Alert Day Is March 27
Nearly 26 million Americans live with diabetes, yet 7 million of these people do not even know they have the blood sugar disease. To help prevent and diagnose diabetes in all Americans, March 27 is American Diabetes Association Alert Day, a call for people nationwide to take the new Diabetes Risk Test to determine if they are at risk for developing Type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes accounts for approximately 90 percent of cases and is on the rise in the United States.
An estimated 79 million—one in three U.S. children and adults—have pre-diabetes, higher than normal blood sugar, which puts them at risk for developing Type 2 diabetes. Often, people with Type 2 diabetes have no symptoms of the disease, but common symptoms can include frequent urination, unusual thirst, extreme hunger and unusual weight loss.
The new Diabetes Risk Test is available in English and Spanish year-round. The test asks basic questions about age, weight, family history and other potential risks for pre-diabetes or Type 2 diabetes. Participants receive preventive tips, and those at high risk are encouraged to talk with their healthcare provider.
Leading risk factors for Type 2 diabetes include being overweight, sedentary, over the age of 45 and having a family history of diabetes. Individuals can prevent or delay Type 2 diabetes through:
- A healthy weight—losing just 7 percent of body weight (15 pounds if you weigh 200 pounds) helps control diabetes.
- Regular physical activity—exercise helps lower blood glucose and can decrease the need for insulin or diabetes pills.
- Healthy eating—diabetes.org offers meal and snack guidelines and flavorful recipes for diabetics and those prone to the disease.
Have you taken the new Diabetes Risk Test? If so, did you feel it was beneficial?
Staying Healthy and Active is one of the most important factors in our life today. Being and staying physically active regardless of your age,health, or physical abilities keeps you healthier.