World Diabetes Day is Wednesday. According to the American Diabetes Association, more than 246 million people across the globe now have diabetes. By 2020, that number is expected to rise to 350 million.
Diabetes of all types are on the rise.
But type 2 diabetes has seen the biggest increase. Ironically, this also is the type of diabetes which is the most preventable and even "curable" if diagnosed soon enough in its development.
But many people with type 2 diabetes remain undiagnosed. This is because this most common form of diabetes is gradual, almost sneaky, in its onset. In fact, type 2 diabetes can be present for 8 to 10 years before being discovered.
Often the diagnosis is made when the person develops a complication from untreated diabetes such as a loss of nerve sensation in the hands or feet, reduced vision, lowered kidney function, depression, periodontal disease, or even a heart attack. For some, the only sign may be increased frequency of urination at night.
Full Article:
http://www.caller.com/news/2007/nov/12/day-is-devoted-to-diabetes-awareness/
