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What is Diabetes?

Contributed by: Lance Miller, Pharm.D. Candidate

UMKC School of Pharmacy

Diabetes-Microvascular	2
What's On the Website?	3
Diabetes-Macrovascular	3
Erectile Dysfunction	4
Glaucoma	5
Cystic Fibrosis	5
Poison Prevention	6
Rosacea Syndrome	7
COPD	8
Organ Donation	9
Whooping Cough	9
Acetaminophen	10
Pharmacies	10

Text Box: Diabetes is a growing epidemic. It affects nearly 15 million Americans. About 90 percent to 95 percent of all individuals with diabetes have type 2 diabetes. It is caused by the body's failure to take up sugar into the cells from the blood or a decrease in production of insulin in the pancreas. Detecting diabetes early is the best way to control the disease and protect against other health complications. A patient is diagnosed, by a test called fasting blood glucose, or based on a blood test in the morning. These tests are used to identify people who have blood sugar levels that are higher than normal and they are considered to be diabetic. Diabetes is the leading cause of kidney failure, blindness, and amputation among adults. What are common symptoms of diabetes?
Glucose is the body’s gasoline. If there isn't enough, blood sugar levels rise and glucose is secreted into urine. This can causes an increase in thirst, frequent urination, tiredness, unexplained weight loss and recurrent infections. What are risk Factors? Being overweight or obese Inactive or not regularly exercising Having a family history Some races are at greater risk (i.e. African Americans, Hispanic, and Native American decent)

Text Box: What are the Treatments? Some people can control their diabetes through diet and regular exercise. Even modest weight loss can result in a much lower risk of diabetes. This helps allow the body use blood sugar more efficiently. Eating a well-balanced diet that is low in carbohydrates, fats, salt, and sugar and higher in fiber, can help prevent diabetes. Prevention is always the best treatment, but when diet and exercise alone do not control your diabetes, your physician will prescribe oral diabetes medications and/or insulin injections. If you feel that you are experiencing any of these symptoms, make an appointment with your physician, to discuss you options. For more information talk to your pharmacist or visit the American Diabetes Association home page at www.diabetes.org.