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Diabetes
18.2 million Americans are affected by
either Type 1 or Type 2 Diabetes. Of these, 8.6 million are
over age 60. What is diabetes? Diabetes mellitus is a group
of diseases characterized by high levels of blood glucose
resulting from defects in insulin production, insulin
action, or both. Diabetes can be associated with serious
complications, but people with diabetes can take steps to
control the disease and lower the risk of complications.
Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is usually diagnosed in
children and young adults, and was previously known as
juvenile diabetes. In type 1 diabetes, the body does not
produce insulin. Insulin is necessary for the body to be
able to use sugar. Sugar is the basic fuel for the cells in
the body, and insulin takes the sugar from the blood into
the cells.
Finding out you have diabetes is scary. But don't panic.
Type 1 diabetes is serious, but people with diabetes can
live long, healthy, happy lives.
Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of
diabetes. In type 2 diabetes, either the body does not
produce enough insulin or the cells ignore the insulin.
Insulin is necessary for the body to be able to use sugar.
Sugar is the basic fuel for the cells in the body, and
insulin takes the sugar from the blood into the cells. When
glucose builds up in the blood instead of going into cells,
it can cause two problems:
Right away, your cells may be starved for energy.
Over time, high blood glucose levels may hurt your eyes,
kidneys, nerves or heart.
Finding out you have diabetes is scary. But don't panic.
Type 2 diabetes is serious, but people with diabetes can
live long, healthy, happy lives.
While diabetes occurs in people of all ages and races, some
groups have a higher risk for developing type 2 diabetes
than others. Type 2 diabetes is more common in African
Americans, Latinos, Native Americans, and Asian
Americans/Pacific Islanders, as well as the aged population.
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