The fourth Tuesday every March is set aside as ‘Diabetes Alert Day’. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) designated the day in 1986. The group hopes to bring renewed awareness about the seriousness of diabetes. The ADA also encourages people to know their risk of getting the disease.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates more than 38 million people in the United States have diabetes. That’s about 11% of the U.S. population.
“Nearly one in two Americans has diabetes or pre-diabetes. It’s likely someone you know or love is impacted. We encourage everyone to heed this alert-learn your risk, be aware of the symptoms of diabetes, and don’t wait to reach out to your doctor if you have any concerns,” said Charles Henderson, the ADA’s chief executive officer.
Health experts say early detection is critical to avoid diabetes related complications. Diabetes, left untreated, can lead to heart disease, kidney and eye problems to name just a few of the issues from this disease.
Millions Unaware They Have Diabetes
The ADA estimates about 20% of all American adults with Type 2 diabetes are not aware they have it. That is why the organization urges everyone, even those without noticeable symptoms to take a free 60 Second Type 2 Diabetes Risk Test.
The link to the test is: https://diabetes.org/diabetes-risk-test
Common Symptoms
Here are some common symptoms of diabetes that people should be aware of:
- Urinating often
- Feeling very thirsty
- Feeling very hungry (even though you are eating)
- Extreme fatigue
- Blurry vision
- Cuts or bruises that are slow to heal
- Weight loss (even though you may be eating more-often associated with Type 1 diabetes)
- Tingling pain or numbness in the hands/feet (often associated with Type 2 diabetes)
More Information
Resources for diabetes prevention and support for people living with prediabetes or diabetes are available at diabetes.org or at 1-800-DIABETES (1-800-342-2383.)
