Many Americans aren't taking necessary steps to protect against diabetes: Study

Apr 28 2010

Diabetes affects more than 23 million people in the United States today and another 54 million people have pre-diabetes, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).  However, while nearly 60 percent of Americans are concerned about developing diabetes, many aren't taking the necessary steps to protect their health, according to a recent study by the International Diabetes Center and Abbott ( ABT).  Just slightly more than a third of people surveyed have taken preventative action in their own lives to reduce their risk, and even fewer (29 percent) have spoken with their doctor about their chance of developing the condition.  

"Diabetes has reached epidemic proportions in the United States and it is important for people across the country to know their risks for developing the condition," said Maggie Powers, Ph.D., registered dietitian, certified diabetes educator and research scientist, International Diabetes Center.  "Type 2 diabetes represents the vast majority of these cases, but the good news is it can be controlled – or even prevented – through a weight management plan that includes regular exercise and a balanced diet."

Understanding Risk Factors

Many Americans are unaware of certain factors that place them at a higher risk for type 2 diabetes.  

• While the survey shows that obesity is commonly understood as a leading risk factor for developing the diabetes, the majority of Americans (62 percent) think that age plays little or no role in their likelihood for developing the condition.  
• Nearly a third of people surveyed think balanced diet does not play a critical role in lowering the likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes.  
• Only 40 percent of Hispanic Americans and half of African Americans are aware that their ethnicity is a major risk factor, although both groups face a statistically higher risk for developing type 2 diabetes.

Managing Type 2 Diabetes

From families to careers to busy social lives, people with diabetes have to manage much more than just their condition.  To properly manage type 2 diabetes, regularly scheduled, balanced meals, daily exercise and frequent blood glucose monitoring should be part of a diabetes management plan.  

• More than 55 percent of survey respondents with type 2 diabetes said their hectic schedules get in the way of their management plan, with 20 percent ranking it as their number one challenge.  
• Despite the importance of starting the day with a healthy meal, two out of five people with type 2 diabetes skip breakfast at least once per week.  

In spite of the challenges, people with diabetes shouldn't be discouraged and can find balance in their lives through a structured diet plan that includes proper nutrition and the use of products to help manage blood glucose levels like Glucerna® shakes, snack bars and cereals.  Specially formulated with unique blends of slowly digested carbohydrates, Glucerna products are convenient for everyday use and designed to reduce blood sugar spikes, which can lead to lower A1C levels when used as part of a diabetes management plan.

Mother Love, author, TV personality, and Ambassador for the American Diabetes Association Research Foundation shares how she found balance by taking charge of her health.  "I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes years ago and once I learned to accept the condition, I lost weight and found a healthy balance in my life," she said.  "I know life with diabetes can be challenging, but having the tools for healthy living is half the battle."