A Growing Impact on the Health of Our Community

Diabetes is continuing to be a widespread concern and Detroit is no exception. With 1 in 3 Detroiter's over the age of 50 being diagnosed with diabetes it's safe to say it's a growing epidemic. It's imperative that we reach all those at risk in an effort to educate our communities on the topic of Diabetes. There are several locations that provide services for those who have been diagnosed with Diabetes, as well as those at high risk of contracting the disease.

Diabetes: The Cause

Diabetes is caused by the bodies pancreas lacking the ability to release insulin or not using insulin the body makes properly. When we eat our body automatically releases the insulin from the pancreas to remove the sugar from the bloodstream.

Those people who's pancreas is functioning properly can remove most of blood sugar from the bodies bloodstream. Which allows the sugar level in the blood to drop. However when there is a problem with the pancreas the sugar builds up in the bloodstream causing your sugar level to rise.

Diabetes: Symptoms

There are many symptoms of Diabetes. Diabetes is most common in African Americans. With the majority of Detroit's population being African American it is important that we are familiar with the symptoms of Diabetes. Early detection can save you from the complications of this life long condition. Diabetes is also hereditary. A Family history of diabetes puts you at a greater risk of contracting the condition in your lifetime.

Below are some symptoms of Diabetes:

Increased Thirst

Increased Frequency of UrinationBlurred Vision

Headaches

Weight Gain

Unexplained Weight Loss

Increased Fatigue

Irritability

Numbness in Fingers & Toes

Increased Hunger

Diabetes: Treatments & Local Clinics

There are several options for treatment of Diabetes. The most important part of getting treatment is early detection or diagnosis. The earlier you diagnose diabetes the more positive the outcome.

Treatments include:

Change in diet
Exercise
Medications including insulin

There are several locations in the Detroit are that give screenings, treatment planning, and diagnosis.

Below you will find a few in the Detroit area. Contact the ones closest to you:

Center for Preventative Medicine:

22631 Greater Mack Ave.

Ste. 100

St. Clair Shores, MI 48080

586-771-0100

www.diabetesdetroit.com

Hours:

Mon-Fri 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Sat-Sun: Closed

Services:

Comprehensive Diabetes Assessment

Diabetes Prevention

Eduction

Diabetes Empowerment Program

Nutrition Plans

Diabetes Treatment Center

22151 Moross Road, Suite 334

Detroit, MI 48236

313-885-2334

John D. Dingell VA Medical Center

Diabetes Education Program

4646 John R.

Detroit, MI 48201

313-576-1000 Ext. 5238

Diabetes Support Groups:

St. John Northeast Community Hospital:

22151 Moross Road, Ste. 306 PBI

Detroit, MI 48236

Contact: Roseanne Burson

(313)343-3384

St. Mary Mercy Hospital:

Taking Charge of Living With Diabetes

36475 W. 5 Mile Road

Livonia, MI 48154

Contact: Janice Wheaker

734-522-1509

Meets: 2^nd Wednesday of the Month

Sinai Grace Hospital:

Diabetes Connection

6001 W. Outer Drive

Detroit, MI 48219

Contact: Shannon Schmit RN

(313)966-3194

Meets: 2^nd Wednesday of the Month

1:00PM - 2:30PM