November is American Diabetes Month — a time to raise awareness about a condition that affects over 38 million Americans. Even more alarming, nearly 98 million adults have prediabetes, putting them at high risk for developing type 2 diabetes.
What Is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a long-term condition where the body struggles to manage blood sugar. This happens when insulin — the hormone that helps sugar move from the blood into cells — isn’t working properly. Over time, high blood sugar can damage the heart, kidneys, nerves, and eyes.
Types of Diabetes
- Type 1: An autoimmune disease where the body stops making insulin. It’s usually diagnosed in kids and young adults.
- Type 2: The most common type. It develops when the body doesn’t use insulin well. Lifestyle factors like diet and exercise play a big role.
- Gestational Diabetes: Happens during pregnancy and usually goes away after birth, but increases future risk of type 2.
- Prediabetes: Blood sugar is high but not yet diabetes. It’s a chance to take action and prevent type 2.
What’s New?
- If you have diabetes and a history of heart or kidney disease, the good news is that newer medications like GLP-1 and SGLT2 inhibitors can actually help protect both.
- These treatments are now recommended for people with type 2 diabetes and other health risks.
- More kids and teens are showing signs of prediabetes — making early healthy habits more important than ever.
How to Lower Your Risk
“Endocrinologists help patients manage diabetes through personalized care, medication adjustments, and lifestyle support — all aimed at preventing complications and improving long-term health,” says Israa Hussein, M.D.
Here are simple steps that can help:
- Lose a little weight — even 5–7% can make a big difference.
- Eat more whole foods and fewer sugary drinks and processed snacks.
- Move your body — aim for 150 minutes of exercise a week.
- Get screened if you’re over 45 or have risk factors.
- Join local health events or support groups.
If you haven’t been screened for diabetes, talk to your doctor. If you’re living with diabetes, ask about the latest treatments. And share what you learn — together, we can build a healthier future.
Find a provider near you at pascackmedicalcenter.com. In-person and virtual appointments available.