Around the world, some 540 million adults have diabetes, and the number will soar in the coming years.
Almost half of those people are undiagnosed, and the disease caused 6.7 million deaths globally in 2021, according to the International Diabetes Foundation (IDF).
November 14 is designated as World Diabetes Day. In the United States, the American Diabetes Association promotes awareness throughout the entire month each November.
The IDF says more people need to be aware of signs they might be at risk. For example:
- Excessive thirst might be a warning sign
- Frequent urination can be, too
- People with diabetes can have numbness in their hands and feet
“Type 2 diabetes is most commonly diagnosed in older adults, but is increasingly seen in children, adolescents and younger adults due to rising levels of obesity, physical inactivity and poor diet,” the IDF says.
Eating right, exercising, and keeping a healthy body weight are key to managing it.
And lack of exercise, eating poorly, and being overweight contribute to one’s risk of developing Type 2.
The IDF says, “Research indicates that a majority of cases of type 2 diabetes could be prevented through healthy diet and regular physical activity.”
Please, if you think you’re at risk, talk to your doctor. If you need help exercising and eating right, we are here to keep you healthy. Call us today.
Holly Kouvo is a personal trainer, functional aging specialist, senior fitness specialist, brain health trainer, writer, and speaker.