Shining a Spotlight on Diabetes

2023 Diabetes Awareness Month: 
Know your Risk, Know Your Response

Know The Stats!

​Diabetes is a global health concern affecting 1 in 10 adults worldwide. Per the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), about 90% have Type2 diabetes. Here in America, it is estimated that approximately 11.3% of Americans have diabetes and about 23% don't know they have it.  In some cases, you can actually delay or prevent type 2 diabetes and its complications by simply embracing and sticking with healthy habits. It's all about being aware of your risk and knowing what steps to take. 

Photo by Sweet Life on Unsplash

​Whats the Deal?

These stats are alarming! Which is the reason that November marks a dedicated time for advocacy, education, and community support, as we shine the spotlight on Diabetes Awareness Month. This endeavor has been in the works for many years in collaboration with various organizations. This month serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of understanding, preventing, and managing diabetes.

At the end of this blog you will find a link created by IDF that assesses your risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes in the next 10 years. The assessment is very short and will only take you a few moments to complete.  Check it out to see your risk! 

​Suga-Diabetes

Photo by Sweet Life on Unsplash

Diabetes is a chronic health condition that impacts the way your body converts carbohydrates also known as sugar into energy.

Carbohydrates, when digested, are broken down into sugar also known as glucose, which is then released into your bloodstream. When there is sugar in your blood stream, it triggers your pancreas to release insulin. Insulin is a hormone. Think of it as a key that unlocks your body's cells to allow sugar to be used for energy.

If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, your body either doesn't create enough insulin or is unable to use the insulin that your body has created, Eventually your body will be less sensitive to the insulin or actually stop making it. When this occurs the sugar in your bloodstream will raise, which can cause other health issues. If left untreated you will be at risk to developing heart disease, loss of eyesight, nerve damage or kidney disease.

There are many different forms of diabetes. The most known types are Type 1 Diabetes, Type2 Diabetes, and Gestational Diabetes. Click the link below to learn about the various types of diabetes. 

• Type 1 Diabetes
• Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in adults (LADA)
• Type 2 Diabetes
• Gestational diabetes.
• Maturity-Onset Diabetes in the Young (MODY)
• Cystic fibrosis-Related diabetes (CFRD)
• Cushing’s syndrome

Know the signs:

• Urinate (pee) a lot, often at night
• Are very thirsty
• Lose weight without trying
• Are very hungry
• Have blurry vision
• Have numb or tingling hands or feet
• Feel very tired
• Have very dry skin
• Have sores that heal slowly
• Have more infections than usual

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​ Raising Awareness and Advocacy

"We believe in an Africa where children with type 1 diabetes have an equal chance at long, healthy, productive and gainful lives."
​-Sonia Nabeta Foundation​

Being an advocate for all individual with diabetes rings near and dear to my heart. Growing up as a Type 1 diabetic, there weren't many individuals with diabetes my age, let alone who looked like me. That's what birthed my advocacy journey.  I strive to bring awareness to the online diabetes community by shinning light, brining hope and joy to those living with diabetes. 

This month I will be shinning light on the Sonia Nabeta Foundation (SNF) by fundraising.  SNF was founded by the Nabeta family in honor of their daughter and sister, Sonia. She fought a valiant fight against Type 1 diabetes, however she passed in August of 2015.  They provide financial support, education and advocacy for children with Type 1 diabetes in Sub Saharan Africa.  Please join me in making a difference in the lives of children living with Type 1 diabetes. 

Photo By: Sonia Nabeta Foundation

What's Next!

As we dive into Diabetes Awareness Month, let's commit to making a difference. Whether you have a personal connection to diabetes or you're simply passionate about better health, there are countless ways to contribute to the cause. By spreading awareness, supporting research, and promoting a healthier world, we can all play a part in reducing the impact of diabetes on individuals and communities.

Stay tuned throughout this month as I share to make the most of Diabetes Awareness Month.

​Together, we can change lives and work towards a healthier, more informed future.

Mentioned Links: 
​Donate to Sonia Nabeta Foundation: www.sonianabetafoundation.org/donate
Type 2 Diabetes Risk Assessment: worlddiabetesday.org/type-2-diabetes-risk-assessment/
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Citations: 
​www.cdc.gov/diabetes/basics/diabetes.html
www.cdc.gov/diabetes/data/statistics-report/index.html
https://beyondtype1.org/other-forms-of-diabetes/
https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/basics/symptoms.html