In the United States alone, 20.8 million children and adults, or 7% of the population, have diabetes, according to the American Diabetes Association. While an estimated 14.6 million have been diagnosed, 6.2 million people (or nearly one-third) are unaware they have the disease.

Diabetes is associated with increased risk for a number of serious, life-threatening complications. It is the leading cause of kidney failure and of new blindness in adults; more than 60% of all leg and foot amputations unrelated to injury are among diabetics.

Type 2 diabetes results from insulin resistance, which is the body’s inability to process glucose, or blood sugar, properly. This condition is most often caused or exacerbated by obesity.  Poor insulin resistance is also an underlying cause of metabolic syndrome, a cluster of conditions that often occur together, including obesity, high blood sugar, high blood pressure and high triglycerides, which can lead to cardiovascular disease.

Regular exercise and a change in diet to control obesity are the best prevention for diabetes. However, many people are unaware they have the disease until they develop symptoms. For this reason, preventive efforts are imperative. Research has shown that improving control over blood glucose levels reduces the risk of developing eye, kidney and nerve disease by up to 40%. In addition, regular eye exams and treatment can actually prevent up to 90% of diabetes-related blindness.

At The Center for Preventive Medicine®, we help you assess your risk for developing diabetes by reviewing your medical history and through extensive blood work and other testing. The safest, most effective way to prevent the development of insulin resistance in overweight and obese people is through weight loss and increased physical activity. We provide nutritional counseling and establish a diet and exercise plan that can prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes so you can enjoy More Good Years.