November is American Diabetes Month

  • Published
  • By Capt. Courtney Finkbeiner
  • 66th Medical Operations Group healthcare integrator
HANSCOM AFB, Mass. --  More than 20 million children and adults in the United States are estimated to have diabetes. Diabetes is a disorder in which the body does not produce or cannot properly use insulin. Insulin is a hormone that is needed to convert food into the energy.

There are two main types of diabetes. Type I diabetes accounts for five to ten percent of all diabetes cases. It results from the body's failure to produce insulin and usually affects children and young adults. Type II diabetes is the most common type of diabetes and results from an inadequate insulin supply and insulin resistance, a condition in which the body fails to properly use insulin. Type II diabetes is most often diagnosed in older adults but is increasingly affecting young adults and even children.

There does not appear to be one single cause of diabetes. Key risk factors for diabetes involve both genetics and environmental factors, such as obesity and lack of exercise.

Because diabetes' early symptoms can be subtle, approximately one-third of individuals who have the condition are unaware of it. Common diabetes symptoms include frequent urination, excessive thirst, extreme hunger, unusual weight loss, increased fatigue, irritability and blurry vision. Anyone with one or more of these diabetes symptoms should see their doctor immediately. Early detection of the condition can decrease the chance of developing complications.

Health care providers use a fasting blood sugar test to diagnose diabetes. A fasting blood sugar level of 126 or higher may indicate diabetes. A fasting blood sugar level between 100 and 125 can signify a condition known as pre-diabetes. This condition is almost always present before individuals develop diabetes. Research indicates that some long-term damage to the body may already be occurring during pre-diabetes. However, by taking action to manage blood sugar levels, an individual may delay or even prevent the development of Type II diabetes.

Servicemembers can call (888) NAVYMED and schedule an appointment with their primary care manager to request fasting labs, request an appointment with the registered dietician or to speak with a diabetic nurse educator. Hanscom civilians can schedule a fasting blood sugar test with Deanne Casey, 66th Medical Operations nurse coordinator and health educator by calling the Health and Wellness Center at (781) 377- 6560.

As with many other chronic conditions, proper education is critical. Maintaining an appropriate weight, ensuring proper nutrition and regular exercise are important components of diabetes management. PCMs and health care professionals at the HAWC can educate and assist individuals in achieving these components. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call your primary care provider or the HAWC.