“People who are overweight and exercise infrequently are at a significant risk for developing Type 2 diabetes.” So states Dr. Richard Pish, a doctor specializing in Internal Medicine at Uniontown Hospital. Considering that, according to the Centers for Disease Control, 55% of Americans weigh too much, it’s no surprise that diabetes is on the rise in our country.
“Typically, we see diabetes in people over 45,” says Dr. Pish. “Now it’s becoming more common in all age groups. Factors like poor diet and obesity are causing even children to develop the disease. Unfortunately, the longer you have the disease, the greater the chances of serious complications.”
Poor diet and smoking are also associated with an increased risk, as are high cholesterol and high blood pressure.
“Family history is a factor, as well,” adds Dr. Pish. So are race and ethnicity. African Americans, Latino/Hispanic Americans, Native Americans and Asian Americans all have a higher prevalence of diabetes.
If you fall into any of these categories, Dr. Pish suggests a visit to your doctor as soon as possible. “A simple test can determine if there’s a problem.”
The 3 Major Types of Diabetes
Type 1
Commonly known as juvenile diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes, this accounts for about 10% of all diagnosed diabetes cases and requires insulin injections.
Type 2
Commonly known as adult diabetes, this accounts for almost 90% of all diabetes cases and can often be controlled through diet and good health habits.
Gestational Diabetes
This develops in 2-5% of all pregnancies. Although it disappears when a pregnancy is over, mothers who develop gestational diabetes have a higher risk for developing Type 2 diabetes down the road.
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