Diabetes? WHO Knows What's Best!

Author

Arden Courts of Fort Myers

For more information about the author, click to view their website: Arden Courts

Posted on

Apr 08, 2022

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Florida - Sarasota, Bradenton & Charlotte Counties , Florida - Southwest

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World Health Day is on April 7 and this year the theme is Focus on Diabetes. Worldwide, diabetes affects an estimated 347 million people according to the World Health Organization (WHO), and was the cause of 1.5 million deaths in 2012, mostly in middle and lower income nations. WHO wants to not only build awareness of this chronic disease, but remind everyone that it can be treated effectively, and in some instances, can actually be prevented.
In Type 1 diabetes the pancreas does not produce insulin, and in Type 2, the pancreas still produces insulin, but the body is unable to use it. Insulin is a hormone that allows the red blood cells to absorb sugar in the blood stream (glucose). Glucose provides energy to cells in our muscles and other tissues, especially the brain. When there is too much sugar in the blood stream, it can cause serious and permanent damage to the circulatory system and other organs in the body, like the heart, kidneys and eyes. This circulatory damage also puts individuals with diabetes at high risk for heart attack and stroke.
But with proper care and control, diabetes can be managed and the likelihood of serious complications is reduced. According to the Defeat Diabetes Foundation, April is the perfect time to learn about the risk factors and warning signs of diabetes and the positive lifestyle changes you can make to defeat the disease. Risk factors include a family history, increased body weight, a sedentary lifestyle, age, and race, with African Americans, Hispanics, native Americans and Asian Americans seeing an increased risk of developing diabetes.
Signs of diabetes are increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue and irritability, blurred vision, extreme hunger and unexplained weight loss. Blood tests are available to show current blood sugar levels and your average blood sugar over a three-month period (A1C). You may also have an oral glucose tolerance test where your blood is tested when fasting and during a span of two hours following a sugary drink. If you are diagnosed with diabetes, treatment options include insulin, medication to control blood sugar, special diet and exercise to help maintain a healthy weight and heart. If you are concerned that you or a family member may have diabetes, check with your doctor. Careful control of your blood sugar can reduce your risk of side effects and in some cases, may even eliminate your need for medication. With lifestyle modifications, like a healthy weight, diet, and regular exercise program, you can defeat diabetes.

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Arden Courts of Fort Myers

Assisted Living 15950 McGregor Boulevard, Fort Myers, Florida, 33908

At Arden Courts Memory Care Community in Ft. Myers, memory care is our sole focus. Located on McGregor Blvd, our community is specifically designed to meet the unique needs of individuals with memory loss, including Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. Our caregivers are specially trained to provide compassionate care and support tailored to each resident's needs.Arden Courts features welcoming common spaces, including inviting kitchens and family rooms, where residents can socialize and engage in meaningful activities. Our enclosed courtyards offer safe outdoor spaces with walking paths, allowing residents to enjoy fresh air and nature in a secure environment.We understand the challenges families face when a loved one has memory loss, and we're here to provide peace of mind and support. Our community is dedicated to promoting the safety, comfort, and well-being of our residents, ensuring they receive the highest quality of care in a warm and nurturing environment.

Arden Courts of Fort Myers

Memory Care 15950 McGregor Boulevard, Fort Myers, Florida, 33908

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