National Diabetes Awareness Month
Date: 11/01/20
In Louisiana, diabetes has the 5th highest mortality rate in the nation.
According to the American Diabetes Association, nearly 14 percent of the adult population in Louisiana have diabetes, and an additional 37.5 percent have prediabetes. Direct medical expenses and lost productivity due to diabetes and prediabetes cost an estimated $5.4 billion in Louisiana each year, the Association reports.
Since 1952, The ADA has been pioneering the field of diabetes research. Working to find a cure, as well as uncovering innovative and cutting-edge research. Through this research, valuable information has been gathered to help others learn the signs of early detection and prevention.
Providers encouraging their patients to maintain healthy, active lifestyles is important to improved patient health. Ongoing diabetes self-management education and support are critical to preventing acute complications and reducing the risk of long-term complications. A few reminders for patients to help manage diabetes successfully include:
- eating healthy
- exercise frequently
- take their medication
- monitor blood sugar
This is also a good time to remind every diabetic or pre-diabetic patient to be sure to complete their annual testing. These tests include:
- dilated eye exam
- foot exam by a healthcare professional
- a kidney test
- full bloodwork, including A1c.
To learn more about diabetes risk factors, prevention, awareness and education, please visit the American Diabetes Association website at www.diabetes.org.