LANGLEY AFB, VA. –
Currently, 21 million Americans have diabetes, and each year, an additional one million new cases are diagnosed.
Nevertheless, diabetes is preventable by adjusting daily habits.
The American Diabetes Association, www.diabetes.org, has an online questionnaire that allows individuals to determine whether they are at risk for developing diabetes.
Those in the high-risk category are overweight, do not exercise, have a family member with diabetes, or are African American or Latino; however, by losing a modest amount of weight, getting 30 minutes of physical activity five days a week and eating healthier, diabetes can be delayed or prevented.
If uncontrolled, diabetes can damage the nerves and blood vessels, and lead to complications, such as heart disease, stroke, blindness, kidney disease, gum infections and leg amputation.
Make an appointment with a medical provider to discuss making healthy lifestyle changes. For those with diabetes, make sure to keep up with recommended tests and checkups.
Remember, it's never too late to make a positive change.