Newsletter

The Exploding Problem of Diabetes
Rod J. Marchiando, Pharm.D., Clinical Pharmacist

Like the United States' expanding waistline, the number of people with diabetes is growing at an alarming rate. It is estimated that diabetes rose by 33% in the 90’s while at the same time overweight American adults has risen by almost 60%. Experts do not believe the two increasing trends are by coincidence. What is even more alarming is the rise in Type 2 diabetes in children and teenagers. Type 2 diabetes is a form of diabetes that is usually only seen in aging adults. While diabetes is manageable, it is still the seventh-leading cause of death in the United States. It is also associated with many health problems: blindness, heart disease, and kidney disease. Although the focus should be placed on preventing diabetes through diet and exercise, several medications can be used in combination with lifestyle changes to manage the disease.

In the past, insulin was the main drug used to treat Type 2 diabetes but today we have many types of insulin and pills to manage the disease. Oral medications like Glucophage®, Avandia®, Actos®, Glucotrol XL®, and Amaryl® all help control Type 2 diabetes. It is important to talk to your doctor regarding which medication(s) are right for you.

It is very important to get tested for diabetes, especially if you are over 45 years of age, overweight, do not get regular exercise, have/had a mother/father or sister/brother with diabetes. To look at your risk for diabetes, click here to take a test. However, it is very important to see your doctor about your risk and be tested for diabetes. Remember, diabetes is manageable in most people but the key is to prevent the disease by modifying how you eat and exercise.