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       7.8% of all Americans have diabetes...

        2.4% don't even know they have it!

Diabetes is a disease in which the body does not produce or properly use insulin. Insulin is a hormone that is needed to convert sugar, starches and other food into energy needed for daily life. The cause of diabetes continues to be a mystery, although both genetics and environmental factors such as obesity and lack of exercise appear to play roles.

There are 23.6 million children and adults in the United States, or 7.8% of the population, who have diabetes. While an estimated 17.9 million have been diagnosed with diabetes, unfortunately, 5.7 million people (or nearly one quarter) are unaware that they have the disease. Chances are, you or someone you love suffers from diabetes. Most diabetic cases can be treated and/or prevented with weight loss, diabetic diet, exercise, and in some cases medication is needed.

The four major types of diabetes are Pre-Diabetes, Type 1 Diabetes, Type 2 Diabetes, and Gestational Diabetes.

Pre-Diabetes:

is a condition that occurs when a person's blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not high enough for a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes. There are 57 million Americans who have pre-diabetes, in addition to the 23.6 million with diabetes.

Type 1:

Results from the body's failure to produce insulin, the hormone that "unlocks" the cells of the body,allowing glucose to enter and fuel them. It is estimated that 5-10% of Americans who are diagnosed with diabetes have type 1 diabetes.

Type 2:

Results from insulin resistance (a condition in which the body fails to properly use insulin), combined with relative insulin deficiency. Most Americans who are diagnosed with diabetes have type 2 diabetes.

Gestational:

Immediately after pregnancy, 5% to 10% of women with gestational diabetes are found to have diabetes, usually, type 2.

Diabetes often goes undiagnosed because many of its symptoms seem so harmless. Recent studies indicate that the early detection of diabetes symptoms and treatment can decrease the chance of developing the complications of diabetes.

Some Diabetic Symptoms Include:

     * Frequent Urination

      * Excessive Thirst

      * Extreme Hunger

      * Unusual Weight Loss

      * Increased Fatigue

      * Irritability

      * Blurry Vision

      * Nausea & Vomiting

If you experience these symptoms and feel you may have diabetes, please seek professional medical attention.

See our "Health Resources" page for resources to learn more about diabetes.>>