Ask the Expert

Answer:

Diabetes is a serious disease that affects the cells, muscles and fatty tissue of the body and can eventually affect the organs (kidneys, eyes, heart). There are two types of diabetes.

Type 1 diabetes, also known as “juvenile diabetes” or “insulin dependent diabete,” is less common (occurs in only 5% of all diabetes) and occurs when the body does not produce insulin (a hormone that regulates movement of glucose into the cells) to convert sugar and starch into energy. Type 1 diabetes is diagnosed early in life, and there are no known risk factors or preventive measures. More commonly, discussion about risk factors refers to type 2 diabetes, which accounts for 95% of all diabetes.

Type 2 diabetes, also called “adult onset” or “non-insulin dependent diabetes,” is a chronic condition that affects how the body uses insulin to metabolize glucose (sugar), which is the body’s main source of fuel.

People who have type 2 diabetes either do not produce enough insulin or the body resists the effects of the insulin. This often comes on slowly, and may initially appear as “pre-diabetes”- a condition where blood sugars are elevated but not high enough on several measures to be diagnosed as diabetic. Pre-diabetes is a warning sign that there is a probable risk for diabetes to develop.

Although experts still aren’t sure what causes type 2 diabetes, there are clearly identified lifestyle risk factors as well as action steps that can delay or prevent the development of the disease. People with SB who have any of the following risk factors are at higher risk for developing type 2 diabetes:

Obesity- People who are overweight, especially those whose fat settles in the abdomen rather than the legs and hips,are at high risk for insulin resistance and diabetes. At least 50% of children and adults with SB are obese, putting them at very high risk for diabetes in their life.

Inactivity/immobility- Increased exercise helps to maintain a health weight. Furthermore, exercises burns glucose for energy, increasing the cells’ ability to use the insulin. There are many options for exercise for people with SB who can walk; and for those who have difficulty with walking or use a wheelchair.

Family history- Hispanics, American Indians, Asian Americans and African Americans are the highest risk group for type 2 diabetes. However, any family history of diabetes should be shared with your physician.

Personal History of pre-diabetes or gestational diabetes (diabetes during pregnancy)

Age- Risk increases with age. People over the age of 45 are considered high risk. However, insulin resistance and type II diabetes is increasing among children and adolescents. This increase is attributed to obesity, poor nutrition and lack of exercise.

Prevention:

Eat nutritious meals and maintain a healthy weight (see SBA’s info sheet on obesity )

Exercise

Have regular health check ups

http://www.diabetes.org/living-with-diabetes/?loc=GlobalNavLWD