Climbing for Diabetes Education and Preventing a Disease

October 20th marked a more invigorated fundraising effort for diabetes research and education. More than 1,000 people walked 10 miles through Philadelphia, and climbed more than 1,000 stairs in the process, to raise $600,000 for the diabetes cause.

While diabetes might be toward the bottom of most people's lists of diseases to worry about, it has the fastest growing disease development rate in America, according to the American Diabetes Association. Approximately 21 million children and adults have the disease, and 54 million have a high possibility of developing diabetes. Everyday more than 4,000 people are diagnosed with the disease and 600 people die from it.

There are ways to prevent the disease, deal with it proactively if you're all ready diagnosed and to support loved ones as they navigate their way through life with the disease.

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic disease without a cure.

There are two types of diabetes, Type 1 and Type 2. Type 1 diabetes (also known as juvenile onset diabetes) occurs when the immune system destroys insulin-producing cells, which regulate glucose in the blood, according to the Centers for Disease Control Web site. Most often children and young adults develop Type 1, though it can develop at any age. Those with Type 1 must have insulin injected or pumped into their bodies.

Type 2 diabetes (also known as adult-onset diabetes) is the more common type of diabetes. It occurs when cells do not use insulin correctly and the body becomes resistant to insulin. Because the body increasingly needs insulin, the pancreas begins to lose its ability to produce it. The Centers for Disease Control identifies several factors that can contribute to the development of Type 2 diabetes, including older age, obesity, family history of diabetes and lack of exercise. Most people with Type 2 are able to control it through a diet and exercise plan and by taking medication.

If untreated, stroke, kidney failure heart disease and amputation can all occur as a result of diabetes. These complications often can be prevented if the disease is caught and treated early.

What are the symptoms?

The American Diabetes Association lists frequent urination, excessive thirst and hunger, unusual weight loss, increased fatigue, irritability and blurry vision as symptoms of diabetes. You can visit the ABA's Web site to take their "Online Diabetes Risk Test" if you think you are experiencing these symptoms.
It's wise to visit a doctor early, as well. Again, many of the complications caused by diabetes might be prevented if the disease is caught and treated early.

How do I prevent diabetes?

Unfortunately, Type 1 diabetes cannot be prevented, but it's also not as common.

It's possible to prevent Type 2 diabetes sometimes, and many studies have found the way to reduce risks is by changing your diet and increasing physical activity, according to the Centers for Disease Control.

Sounds easy, but for many people, losing weight can seem like an insurmountable goal. That's why the American Diabetes Association recommends getting the help of health-care professionals. (It's a good idea to get your doctor's permission before beginning any exercise or diet program).

If you just can't seem to get in a half hour of exercise five or more times a week, enlist a friend or co-worker to walk outside or go to the gym with. As it becomes a habit, it will be easier to do it yourself. If you can't get the help of a dietician, try buying a healthy weight-loss cookbook, avoid fast food and measure your portions. A lot of specialists also recommend recording everything you eat to avoid mindless calorie consumption.

How is diabetes treated?

Type 2 diabetes treatment includes several things that must be done daily. First, people with Type 2 diabetes need to keep an eye on their blood sugar level. Second, they must be vigilant that their diet includes plenty of healthy foods (fruits, vegetables, whole grains, etc.) and that they include exercise they enjoy into their weekly, if not daily routines, according to the Mayo Clinic's Web site.

Some people with Type 2 diabetes might be able to control their blood sugar levels through these methods; however, others might need the help of diabetes medications or insulin therapy. Each person is different, and different methods of treatment should be decided upon by the patient and his or her doctor.

Living with diabetes

Living with Type 2 diabetes means devoting a lot of time, energy and attention to monitoring your body. (Shouldn't we all be paying attention to how our bodies are feeling?) Having diabetes doesn't mean you can't enjoy your life, but it does mean making a commitment to watching your diet, getting exercise and making extra appointments with your doctors.

If you're diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes, it's also important to talk to loved ones about the disease, what it does and what they can expect. (And don't be afraid to ask for help). If family and friends aren't available for support, try community groups or online communities for people with diabetes to get support and advice from people who are dealing with the same things. According to the Mayo Clinic, it's important to stay positive, as stress can affect the way you manage diabetes.

For more information about diabetes, consult the American Diabetes Association, Mayo Clinic and Centers for Disease Control. And remember that making changes to your lifestyle in order to prevent the disease is easier than doing it once you're diagnosed.