Diabetes Awareness Month

November 01, 2012

Diabetes Awareness month is November, and World Diabetes Day is celebrated every year on November 14th. Millions of people worldwide are involved in diabetes advocacy and awareness. The focus theme for 2009-2013 is Diabetes Education and Prevention.

Diabetes is a condition in which the body cannot produce and use glucose properly. Many diabetes symptoms seem to be harmless and, therefore, go unrecognized. Some of these symptoms would be sleepiness, dry mouth, and irritability. Detection is important because poorly managed diabetes can lead to future compilations such as kidney failure, eye disease, heart attacks, and nerve damage. There are many educational websites that explain the causes, treatment and management of diabetes. Two website I found very helpful are the Joslin Diabetes Center and the American Diabetes Association.

Diabetes screening tests are a good preventative method for catching the development of diabetes at an early stage. There are diabetes community events and support groups to help educate and raise funds for diabetes research. As public health experts work to educate us on what to do to avoid this disease and its complications, be aware that healthy eating habits and activity choices can lower your risk of developing diabetes.

Deborah J
Blue Springs North Branch