Diabetes: Could You Have It and Not Know It?
November is designated National Diabetes Month to raise awareness of diabetes and its serious effects. Why is it important for you to know more about this chronic condition? Diabetes is a disease that occurs when your blood glucose (blood sugar) is too high. Over time, having too much glucose in your blood can cause other serious health problems such as heart disease, nerve damage, eye problems, kidney disease, and early death.
- In 2021, 11.6% of the population, had diabetes.
- Of this population, 8.7 million were undiagnosed.
- Diabetes was the eighth leading cause of death in the United States in 2021.
Clearly, a significant number of people living today with diabetes don’t even know it. The first step in minimizing your risk is knowing the signs and symptoms of diabetes. They include:
- Urinating often
- Feeling very thirsty
- Feeling very hungry—even though you are eating
- Extreme fatigue
- Blurry vision
- Cuts/bruises that are slow to heal
- Weight loss—even though you are eating more (type 1)
- Tingling, pain, or numbness in the hands/feet (type 2)
If you have one or more of these symptoms, it’s time to schedule a screening appointment with your doctor, especially if you have any risk factors mentioned below.
Managing Diabetes
Some people are more at-risk for developing diabetes. They include persons who are overweight or obese, sedentary, over age 35 or have a family history of the disease. African Americans, American Indians, Asian Americans, Hispanic/Latinos and Pacific Islanders also have a higher risk.
If you have already been diagnosed with diabetes, it is important to make lifestyle changes that can keep you healthy and your blood glucose under control. “People who have been diagnosed with diabetes need to be vigilant about managing their A1C blood glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels,” says Elizabeth Sander, MD. “Eating a healthy diet, regular exercise and taking your medications on a regular basis are all important for preventing complications from this chronic condition.”
Recognizing the importantance of diabetes management and prevention of its complications, Providence and SCAN health plan have partnered to offer specialized care for diabetics. This Chronic Special Needs Plan (C-SNP), called Balance, provides a plan-specific network of specialized providers to care for patients diagnosed with diabetes. Patients can enroll, even if their condition is “under control” or they do currently take medication. Additionally, the plan offers Insulin with a $0 co-pay, a Fitbit Tracker, wellness activation, and engagement.
“With smart lifestyle decisions, patients with diabetes can thrive,” notes Dr. Sander. “Providence providers are important partners in helping you live well with diabetes.
