Did you know that Diabetes is one of the leading causes of disability and death in the United States? It can cause blindness, nerve damage, kidney disease, and other health problems if it’s not controlled reminds Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna.
One in 11 Americans have diabetes — that’s more than 29 million people. And another 86 million adults in the United States are at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
The good news is: People who are at high risk for type 2 diabetes can lower their risk by more than half if they make healthy changes. These changes include: eating healthy, increasing physical activity, and losing weight.
November is American Diabetes Awareness Month. How can you make a difference?
We can use this month to raise awareness about diabetes risk factors and encourage people to make healthy changes.
Here are just a few ideas:
• Encourage people to make small changes, like taking the stairs instead of the elevator.
• Talk to people in your community about getting regular checkups. They can get their blood pressure and cholesterol checked, and ask the doctor about their diabetes risk.
• Ask doctors and nurses to be leaders in their communities by speaking about the importance of healthy eating and physical activity.
• Get regular checkups from your family Physician.
• Spread the Word!
Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna
