Did you know that in the United States, it is estimated that 20.8 million children and adults have diabetes; which is 7% of the population. According to the American Diabetes Association, while estimated 14.6 million have been diagnosed with diabetes, there are about 6.2 million people (which is nearly one-third of the population) who are unaware that they have this deadly disease. Mile Square Health Center is working hard to educate people on how to prevent, postpone, and treat the disease that kills well over 200,00 people each year.
The Facts
Some of the warning signs for Type I Diabetes are frequent urination, unusual thirst, extreme hunger, unusual weight loss, extreme fatigue, as well as irritability.
Warning signs for Type II Diabetes include any of the Type I symptoms, frequent infections, blurred vision, cuts/bruises that are slow to heal, tingling/numbness in the hands/feet, as well as recurring skin, gum or bladder infections.
People often become aware that they have diabetes when they develop one of its serious and life threatening complications such as: heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, blindness, kidney disease, nervous system damage, sexual dysfunction, pregnancy complications, and dental disease.
It is imperative to know if you have pre-diabetes, which can be determined through a simple blood screening. This test measures the glucose level in your blood; the higher the glucose level, the higher the risk of developing diabetes is.
Your diet can seriously put you at risk of developing diabetes. The American Diabetes Association suggests that one fourth of your plate should have grains or starchy food. Another forth should be protein, and the other half should be filled with non-starchy vegetables. Top it off with a glass of non-fat milk, a roll or piece of fruit, and you are ready to eat!
Exercise is the key to preventing diabetes! Nine out of ten people with newly diagnosed Type II Diabetes are overweight. Some simple exercise tips are to walk instead of driving whenever possible, take the stairs rather than an elevator, dance, tend a garden, or join a walking club!
Diabetes can be managed with treatment, proper diet, and exercise.
It is our mission to serve everyone in our community. We are dedicated to the prevention and treatment of Diabetes. If you would like to schedule an appointment at Mile Square Family Health Center for a blood screening, please call (312)-996-2000. We are located at 2045 West Washington Street or 7131 South Jeffrey Blvd.
Close