Health and Fitness : Diabetes affects nearly 26 million Americans

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Diabetes affects nearly 26 million Americans and an estimated 79 million people are at risk for developing the disease. In Benton County, diabetes affects more than 7% of residents (via CDC). For people living with diabetes or at risk for type 2 diabetes, family support is critical to staying healthy.

In observance of National Diabetes Month 2013, the National Diabetes Education Program (NDEP) and Virginia Gay Hospital and Clinics want people to know that Diabetes is a Family Affair. NDEP and its partners are working with individuals, families and communities to take action and encourage simple, but important lifestyle changes to improve their health – particularly if they have diabetes or are at risk for the disease.

Diabetes is a challenging disease that affects the entire family in many ways. For people with diabetes and their families, it’s important to work together to manage diabetes and prevent serious health problems such as heart disease, stroke, blindness, kidney disease, and nerve damage that can lead to amputation. People with diabetes who have a strong family support system are better able to cope with the day-to-day challenges associated with the disease.

It’s also important to know that having a family history of diabetes, such as a mother, father, brother or sister with type 2 diabetes, puts you at greater risk for developing type 2 diabetes. The good news is that you – and your family – can take small, but important steps to delay or prevent type 2 diabetes.

This November, the NDEP wants to remind you that diabetes is a family affair and provide you with resources that you can use with individuals, families, and communities to take action in the fight against diabetes. Visit www.YourDiabetesInfo.org/DiabetesMonth2013 to learn more.

Contact your Virginia Gay Hospital and Clinics healthcare provider to learn more. Diabetes education is available.

Source: NIH and National Diabetes Education Program (NDEP)