Diabetes, a chronic disorder that disrupts the body’s ability to regulate glucose levels, can trigger an array of severe health complications over time. Uncontrolled blood sugar may pave the way for heart disease, stroke, kidney dysfunction, vision impairment, and nerve damage.
Each year, the fourth Tuesday of March marks Diabetes Alert Day, a nationwide effort to heighten awareness about this widespread health concern.
“Among the different types of diabetes, Type 2 diabetes is the most prevalent and typically develops gradually,” stated Dr Kwame Akoto, an internal medicine specialist affiliated with Kaiser Permanente. He noted that age, genetic predisposition, dietary habits, and physical activity levels are significant contributors to the onset of the disease, according to reports by wtop.com.
Progress in Diabetes Understanding and Prevention
Medical advancements in recent decades have shed light on how diabetes progresses, leading to the development of proactive strategies for prevention. Physicians now aim to intercept the disease during its early stages, particularly during the prediabetes phase.
“Prediabetes is a precursor to diabetes, marked by the body’s initial struggle with glucose regulation,” explained Dr. Akoto. “At this stage, intervention can prevent further deterioration.”
Today is Diabetes Alert Day. Did you know that more than 80% of Americans don’t even know that they have prediabetes? Take our risk test today! https://t.co/4eFePFykxo pic.twitter.com/veLB8PWXta
— blkwomenshealth (@blkwomenshealth) March 26, 2024
The American Diabetes Association introduced diagnostic criteria for prediabetes in 1980, providing a framework to assess a person’s risk of developing full-blown diabetes.
“What’s concerning is that prediabetes often presents without symptoms,” said Akoto. “According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 38% of American adults, around 96 million people, have prediabetes, with nearly 80% unaware of their condition.”
In the District of Columbia alone, an estimated 3,000 adults are diagnosed with diabetes annually. In Maryland, the figure stands at approximately 28,000 cases per year, while Virginia sees around 40,000 diagnoses, as per wtop.com.
Recognizing Prediabetes
Prediabetes is identified when blood glucose levels are elevated above the normal range but not high enough for a diabetes diagnosis. The American Diabetes Association advises regular screenings for those at risk.
“The US Preventive Services Task Force recommends that adults aged 35 to 70 who are overweight or obese undergo blood glucose screening during routine medical visits,” said Akoto.
These screenings involve a simple blood draw, often using a fasting plasma glucose test that measures blood sugar levels after an overnight fast.
“Another commonly used test is the Hemoglobin A1c test,” Akoto explained. “This test provides a comprehensive average of blood sugar levels over an 8-to-12-week period, offering valuable insight beyond a one-time reading,” according to the reports by wtop.com.
Preventing Diabetes Through Lifestyle Changes
A prediabetes diagnosis does not inevitably lead to diabetes. With intentional lifestyle adjustments, individuals can significantly lower their risk.
“Weight management is essential,” emphasized Akoto. “Research shows that losing 5% to 7% of body weight can reduce the likelihood of developing diabetes by up to 58%.”
Incorporating regular physical activity is also crucial. Moderate-intensity exercises like walking, cycling, or resistance training for at least 150 minutes per week are recommended, as outlined by wtop.com.
Dietary choices play a fundamental role in blood sugar regulation. “A fiber-rich diet with ample fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins can slow sugar absorption,” Akoto advised. “Opt for foods like fish, turkey, or chicken to enhance your nutritional intake.”
Kaiser Permanente offers a comprehensive, yearlong Diabetes Prevention Program designed to empower participants with the knowledge and tools needed to mitigate their risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.