As we observe American Diabetes Awareness Month, AFC Urgent Care Marlborough aims to highlight the significance of keeping track of your blood sugar levels. With the holiday season approaching, it's time for festive indulgences and hearty meals. However, it's crucial to be mindful of how these celebrations can impact your health.
Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects millions of Americans, and its prevalence continues to rise. Many individuals remain undiagnosed or unaware of the warning signs that could indicate a progression toward more severe forms of diabetes.
Here are four essential reasons to monitor your blood sugar levels:
1. Don’t Become a Statistic
Diabetes is more widespread than many realize, particularly if you have a family history of the disease. Alarming statistics from the CDC include:
- In 2019, approximately 37.3 million Americans (11.3% of the population) had diabetes.
- Nearly 1.9 million individuals live with Type 1 diabetes, including around 244,000 children and adolescents.
- Of the 37.3 million adults with diabetes, 8.5 million were undiagnosed.
- Among Americans aged 65 and older, 29.2% (15.9 million) are living with diabetes.
- Each year, about 1.4 million Americans receive a diabetes diagnosis.
- In 2019, 96 million adults aged 18 and older had prediabetes.
- Over the last two decades, the number of diagnosed diabetes cases has more than doubled, driven by factors such as aging, poor nutrition, and increased weight.
- Individuals with diabetes are twice as likely to experience heart disease or stroke compared to those without.
2. Recognize Your Risks and Symptoms
If you are experiencing symptoms such as increased thirst, heightened hunger, fatigue, blurred vision, numbness in your hands or feet, slow-healing wounds, or unexplained weight loss, you could be at risk for prediabetes or various forms of diabetes. These symptoms can be concerning.
Your risk of diabetes may increase if you:
- Have prediabetes
- Are overweight (including childhood obesity)
- Are 45 years of age or older
- Have a parent, sibling, or child with Type 2 diabetes
- Are physically inactive (exercising less than three times a week)
- Have had gestational diabetes during pregnancy or given birth to a baby weighing over 9 pounds
- Have high blood pressure or are taking medication for it
- Have elevated cholesterol levels
The presence of these risk factors and symptoms is a compelling reason to check your blood sugar levels more frequently.
3. The Health Complications Linked to Diabetes
This year’s American Diabetes Awareness Month emphasizes the link between diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Diabetes increases the risk for other serious health issues, including:
- Heart disease
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Kidney disease
- Nerve damage
- Vision problems
Your lifestyle choices significantly impact your overall health. If you smoke, you heighten your risk of developing these complications, as smoking constricts blood vessels and hampers heart function.
4. Understanding Gestational Diabetes and Its Impact on Pregnancy
Some women may develop gestational diabetes during the later stages of pregnancy due to hormonal shifts. It’s crucial to manage this condition with a healthcare provider's support to protect your baby from potential future diabetes. If you experience gestational diabetes, you can still take steps to prevent Type 2 diabetes later, safeguarding your child from early-onset diabetes.
AFC Urgent Care Marlborough Encourages Screening
AFC Urgent Care Marlborough advocates for diabetes screenings and regular A1C tests. Frequent monitoring of blood sugar levels can help reduce your risk of developing diabetes.
You can walk in or schedule an appointment at AFC Urgent Care Marlborough any day of the week. We will conduct a screening and, if needed, refer you to a diabetes specialist for further assessment. We accept most insurance plans, and there are low-cost self-pay options available, along with an easy-to-use online payment system. Taking charge of your health today is a proactive step toward a healthier tomorrow.
