Along with Obesity, Diabetes Rates are also on the Rise

According to a recent study published in the April 15 issue of the Annals of Internal Medicine, diabetes rates have drastically increased over the past 2 decades, almost doubling since the late 1980’s.   The study consisted of reviewing data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Researchers examined survey results from more than 43,000 adults who were followed from the first survey period (1988 to 1994), as well as the most recent surveys, which were conducted from 1999 to 2010.   The results of this study revealed that diabetes rates are rapidly rising at alarming rates, with almost 1 out of 10 Americans (which equates to 21 million American adults) being affected by the condition.   While the increased percentage of American adults with diabetes is alarming, it is not too surprising that researchers also found a strong correlation between rising obesity rates and diabetes.   On a more positive note, the researchers also found that the management of blood sugar levels has improved for whites over the last few years, although the same can’t be said for African Americans or Mexican-Americans; which indicates that future studies and campaigns should target their efforts towards minority groups and focus on improving education, access to healthcare, advocating the importance of implementing healthier lifestyle changes that include dieting and exercising more.   Simply walking for 30 minutes a day is a great place to start. Another good goal is encouraging people to aim for losing 5 to 7% of their body weight. Making lifestyle changes, like losing weight and exercising, have been found to have a direct impact on lowering and individual’s diabetes risks.   Here at Mountainside Medical Equipment we know how difficult it can be to commit to a new exercise routine, which we we’ve dedicated a whole section of our website towards exercise and fitness products that are designed to help you improve your health and fitness. For those of you with diabetes, Mountainside Medical Equipment also carries a wide range of diabetes supplies, ranging from blood glucose test kits, to diabetic monitors, diabetic skin care products, lancets, and much more.   Sources: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/videos/news/Diabetes_Obesity_041514-1.html http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/news/fullstory_145673.html