Diabetes is a chronic (long-lasting) disease that affects how your body turns food into energy. There are three main types of diabetes: type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes (diabetes while pregnant). More than 122 million Americans are living with diabetes (34.2 million) or prediabetes (88 million). With diabetes, your body either doesn’t make enough insulin or can’t use it as well as it should.
Who is at risk for diabetes?
Adults aged 40 to 70 years who are overweight or obese should be screened for diabetes every 3 years. Additionally, the following factors can increase risk.
- Over age 45
- CVD or family history of CVD or Type II
- High cholesterol
- Hypertension
- Asian, black, Hispanic, Native American, Alaska Native, or Pacific Islander
- Sedentary Lifestyle
- Polycystic ovary syndrome
- Screening for gestational diabetes after 24 weeks
Learn how to manage your diabetes through a Diabetes Self-Management Education (DSME) program. With a healthcare provider referral, diabetes education is covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and most insurance plans.
The Idaho Diabetes Prevention Program offers Lifestyle Coaching to help you manage your diabetes. Find a program near you.
Prediabetes is a condition in which blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not high enough for a diagnosis of diabetes. Being physically active, making wise food choices, and reaching and maintaining a healthy weight can help prevent or reverse insulin resistance and pre-diabetes.
Talk to your healthcare team about your blood glucose targets. Ask how and when to test your blood glucose and how to use the results to manage your diabetes.
If you don't have insurance and need diabetes care, visit your primary care provider and ask for resources for test strips and other diabetes needs. You can also visit your community health center or local free clinic for additional free resources.
Find a National Diabetes Prevention Program (NDPP) near you.