Some Sobering Facts about Diabetes

Statistics providing insight into how serious diabetes is and the complications of diabetes.

• Adults with diabetes have heart disease death rates 2-4x times higher than adults without ("Diabetes Complications: Heart Disease and Stroke"). Because of this, many people with diabetes need to monitor their blood pressure and cholesterol diligently.

• The chance of stroke is 2-4x higher in those with diabetes.

• Diabetes in pregnancy (gestational diabetes) can greatly and gravely complicate a pregnancy.

• Diabetes is the leading cause of blindness and kidney failure.

• 60-70% of people with diabetes have nervous system damage that can lead to the loss of a limb (diabetic necrosis).

• If diabetes is not managed correctly, it can lead to a diabetic coma.

• Minorities are more at risk of diabetes, especially those in the Hispanic, African American, Native American and Polynesian communities ("Who Gets Diabetes?").

• Diabetes is on the rise due to an aging population, as well as the obesity and sedentary lifestyle common with many in the US.

• 80% of people with diabetes are overweight.

• The risk of death for people with diabetes is twice that of the general public when comparing similar ages.

You are probably quite shocked by these statistics, but there is some good news. Unlike many illnesses, diabetes can be managed and completely prevented in many cases.

Learn more about the risks in diabetes at "Diabetes Complications".