Diabetes is a mounting health issue, and you surely want to avoid falling victim to it!

During American Diabetes Month, AFC Urgent Care New Britain aims to educate those at risk of developing diabetes. Regular blood sugar checks and prevention are crucial, especially if it's been some time since your last health screening.

Understanding Diabetes And The Different Types:

Diabetes is a severe, chronic condition impacting how your body processes food into energy. It revolves around insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas to regulate sugar for energy. There are three primary diabetes types: Type 1, Type 2, and gestational diabetes during pregnancy.

Type 2 diabetes is common in older adults, often influenced by lifestyle factors like diet, smoking, and inactivity. Genetics can also heighten the risk.

Prediabetes, when considered as a fourth type, affects more individuals than diagnosed diabetes.

CDC's annual updates showcase rising diabetes cases and risk factors. Key statistics include the prevalence, new cases, and prediabetes numbers. In the last two decades, diabetes diagnoses have more than doubled due to aging populations, poor diet, and increased obesity rates. Diabetes escalates the risk of heart disease and strokes, underscoring the importance of prevention.

Recognizing Diabetes Signs and Risk Factors:

1. Identify potential diabetes risk factors, such as prediabetes, age, family history, high blood pressure, and cholesterol.
2. Insufficient physical activity, gestational diabetes, or giving birth to a heavy baby are also associated risk factors.
3. Watch out for symptoms like increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, blurred vision, numbness in extremities, slow-healing sores, unexplained weight loss, and more.

Prevent Diabetes and Complications:

1. Manage lifestyle choices and behaviors to reduce the risk of developing other health complications.
2. Diabetes increases the chances of heart disease, a leading cause of death in the U.S.
3. Smoking compounds the risk by narrowing arteries and weakening the heart.
4. The upcoming holidays can serve as a motivation to cultivate healthier habits and regular checkups.

Prioritize Blood Sugar Checks:

Consistent monitoring of blood sugar levels, blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglycerides enhances the ability to manage or prevent diabetes.

AFC Urgent Care New Britain Can Help!

Visit AFC Urgent Care New Britain at 135 East Main Street, New Britain, CT 06051, any day of the week for A1C tests and a full checkup. They accept walk-ins and appointments and most insurances. Online payment is also available for those of you who want a more convenient way to “check in” and “check out” after your appointment.