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What is Diabetes?

Diabetes mellitus is a disease characterized by high levels of blood glucose (sugar). Type 1 diabetes occurs when the body cannot produce insulin. Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body cannot make use of enough insulin to keep blood sugar levels normal. Diabetes can result in serious complications, but you can take measures to reduce the risk of such occurrences. A diagnosis of diabetes does not mean that you cannot lead a healthy, fulfilling life.

Approximately 24 million Americans, or 8 percent of the population, have diabetes. One-fourth of these cases are undiagnosed. It is estimated that 25 percent of people 65 or older have diabetes mellitus. The Center for Diabetes Services promotes community events and free screenings to help raise awareness of diabetes and to encourage diagnostic testing.

Awareness of Diabetes Now Can Help Children Later
A critical component of controlling the diabetes epidemic in the U.S. is teaching young people the value of a healthy lifestyle beginning at a young age. Modeling healthy behavior, eating right and exercising will promote healthy living for children. Eating meals as a family is another way to promote healthy eating habits. Obesity has reached epidemic proportions in the U.S. and is now being seen even in young children. This trend is reversible.

For more information, see the list of diabetes related topics in our Healthwise Knowledgebase