November is National Diabetes Month
Diabetes is the leading cause of end-stage renal disease (ESRD), nontraumatic lower-extremity amputations (LEAs), and new cases of blindness among adults in the United States, and a major cause of heart disease and stroke . However, persons with diabetes, together with their support network, can take steps to control the disease and minimize the risk for complications .
Although rates of diabetes-related complications have declined, the number of persons in the United States with diabetes is projected to double or triple by 2050 if current trends in diabetes prevalence continue. However, among adults at risk for type 2 diabetes, weight loss and physical activity can prevent or delay its onset.
CDC and state and territorial diabetes prevention and control programs are working with public and private partners to improve outcomes for persons with diabetes and to reduce the incidence of type 2 diabetes. CDC's National Diabetes Prevention Program is supporting the nationwide implementation of community-based lifestyle programs, beginning in 17 U.S. communities. Resources on family history and gestational diabetes are available at yourdiabetesinfo.org, and information about diabetes is available here.
