JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. –
Diabetes Awareness Month is held every November to raise awareness about diabetes and promote healthy living. As part of this effort, the disease management team at Malcolm Grow Medical Clinics and Surgery Center will have an information table set up at the Joint Base Andrews Commissary, on Nov. 12, from 2 p.m. - 4 p.m., to discuss diabetes, answer questions, and pass out informational material.
Diabetes is the name of the disease that occurs when the body cannot produce enough insulin or does not efficiently use the insulin produced. Insulin is an essential hormone that is necessary for maintaining life. This hormone converts the natural sugars, glucose, in food into usable forms of energy. Individuals who have diabetes are unable to regulate daily glucose fluctuations in the body. Chronically high glucose levels can have deadly consequences.
"Diabetes is one of the leading causes of disability and death in the United States. One in 11 Americans has diabetes, which is more than 29 million people. Another 86 million adults in the United States are at high risk of developing diabetes," said Lt. Col. Maria Teresita Vida, 779th Medical Group, disease management chief.
"If you are overweight, have high blood pressure, or are age 45 or older, you are at higher risk for developing diabetes. The good news is that making healthy lifestyle changes can greatly lower your risk. To help prevent diabetes, watch your weight, eat healthy, and increase your physical activity," said Vida.
For more information about diabetes or to enroll in education classes, contact your primary care provider or your clinic disease manager.