Around 38 million Americans live with diabetes, and over 8 million of them don’t know it. Every November, Diabetes Awareness Month reminds us of the importance of understanding this widespread condition.
At Keven Tagdiri, MD, in Encinitas, California, we know that awareness and early detection can make all the difference in preventing diabetes complications and maintaining long-term health.
Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how your body turns food into energy. Usually, your body breaks down most of what you eat into sugar (glucose), which enters your bloodstream.
When your blood sugar rises, your pancreas releases insulin, a hormone that helps glucose enter your cells for energy.
If you have diabetes, your body either doesn’t make enough insulin or can’t use it properly. As a result, glucose builds up in the bloodstream, leading to high blood sugar levels. Over time, that can damage the heart, kidneys, nerves, eyes, and blood vessels.
There are three main types of diabetes:
Type 1 diabetes is an unpreventable autoimmune condition where the body stops producing insulin. It’s usually diagnosed in childhood or adolescence, but can occur at any age.
Type 2 diabetes is the most common form, often linked to lifestyle factors such as poor diet, lack of physical activity, and excess weight.
Gestational diabetes develops during pregnancy.
Diabetes often develops slowly, so many people don’t realize they have high blood sugar until complications arise. Regular screenings and awareness of the early warning signs can help detect the condition in the prediabetes stage before it causes lasting damage.
Common symptoms include:
If you notice any of these symptoms or have risk factors such as family history, high blood pressure, or obesity, it’s essential to come in for an evaluation. Early diagnosis gives you the best chance to manage your blood sugar effectively and prevent complications.
While anyone can develop diabetes, some factors increase the risk:
Having a parent or sibling with diabetes suggests you have a genetic predisposition.
Being overweight or obese, particularly with extra weight around the abdomen, is a significant risk factor for Type 2 diabetes.
Type 2 diabetes risk increases after 45.
Lack of regular physical activity raises your diabetes risk.
African American, Hispanic, Native American, and Asian American populations are at higher risk.
Women who had diabetes during pregnancy are more at risk of Type 2 diabetes later in life.
Hypertension (high blood pressure) and high cholesterol both contribute to insulin resistance that can lead to Type 2 diabetes.
The good news is that Type 2 diabetes can be prevented through lifestyle changes, such as:
Focus on whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats, fruits, and vegetables. Limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and refined carbohydrates. Portion control also plays a significant role in managing blood sugar levels.
Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity each week, such as brisk walking, swimming, or cycling. Physical activity helps your body use insulin more efficiently.
Losing even a small amount (5%-10%) of your body weight can significantly reduce your risk.
If you’re at risk, we may recommend routine blood tests, such as fasting glucose or HbA1c levels, to track your blood sugar over time.
Regular medical visits are essential for early detection and ongoing health maintenance. We assess your risk and recommend personalized prevention strategies.
If you have diabetes, we help design practical, sustainable management plans that include:
Proper diabetes management helps prevent complications such as nerve damage, kidney disease, heart disease, and vision loss.
If you haven’t had your blood sugar checked recently, make an appointment this month. Early detection is key to preventing complications and living a full, healthy life. Call Keven Tagdiri, MD, to arrange a diabetes review or book an appointment using the online form.
