Diabetes is a serious disease that affects millions of Americans every year. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 23.6 million people or 7.8% of the population have diabetes. There are two major different types of diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is referred to as insulin-dependent diabetes, or juvenile-onset because it typically strikes children or young adults. In order to survive, people must inject themselves with insulin in the form of a shot or pump. Type 2 diabetes, which accounts for 90% to 95% of all cases, is also known as non-insulin-dependent or adult-onset diabetes. In these cases, the body produces insulin but the cells don’t use it properly. This slowly causes the pancreas to lose the ability to produce the insulin. Type 2 diabetes typically affects older adults, especially those who are obese and/or have a family history of the disease. Race/ethnicity can also determine susceptibility for the disease; African-Americans and Latino-Americans are at a higher risk for type 2 diabetes than Caucasians.

If you or someone in your family has diabetes, it should be addressed. Type 2 diabetes in particular affects everyone in the family because there is a genetic predisposition for the disease. If one of your parents has type 2 diabetes, chances are good that you’ll eventually have it too. However, exercising regularly and eating healthy can significantly reduce your risk of developing the disease since obesity and type 2 diabetes are closely related. Parents should set a good example for their children by preparing healthful meals and encouraging exercise to get them in the habit of making healthy choices at a young age. Taking steps like these may prevent diabetes from being passed on to the next generation, ensuring a healthier lifestyle for all those involved.

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Tags: Health, Healthy Living //