Just learning about diabetes? Already a pro? Everyone’s got questions. We’ve got answers.
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What is diabetes? |
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Diabetes means that blood sugar levels are above normal. When people have diabetes, their bodies do not produce or properly use insulin. The cause of diabetes is unknown, but both your family history and lifestyle (lack of exercise and being overweight) can play a part. |
| 2. |
Why do some people have diabetes? |
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Most of the food you eat is turned into sugar, or glucose, for your body to use for energy. Your pancreas makes insulin to help this sugar get into the cells of your body. Sugar is needed for energy. With diabetes, your body either doesn’t make enough insulin or the cells can’t use insulin the right way. This causes sugar to build up in your blood. |
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What are the symptoms of diabetes? |
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The most common symptoms of diabetes include urinating often, being extremely thirsty and hungry, unusual weight loss, being tired more often, being grouchy, and blurry vision. If you haven’t been diagnosed with diabetes but have one or more of these symptoms, check with your doctor. Catching diabetes early can help prevent future diabetes complications. |
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How many people have diabetes? |
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According to the American Diabetes Association, about 7% of all Americans have diabetes. That’s about 20.8 million children and adults. Of these, about 6 million are undiagnosed. And close to 41 million people have prediabetes, which means they have symptoms of diabetes and their blood sugar is high. |
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Is there a cure for diabetes? |
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While there are advancements every day for the treatment of diabetes, there is not yet a cure. Adding a good diet, some exercise, and the proper treatment (like insulin), can help people better manage their diabetes. |
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