There are 20.8 million children and adults in the United States, or 7% of the population, who have diabetes. While an estimated 14.6 million have been diagnosed with diabetes, unfortunately, 6.2 million people (or nearly one-third) are unaware that they have the disease. It is the leading cause of preventable blindness, kidney failure, and amputations. Diabetes is a disease in which the body does not produce or properly use insulin. Insulin is a hormone needed to convert sugar, starches and other food into energy needed for daily life. The cause of diabetes continues to be a mystery, although both genetics and environmental factors such as obesity and lack of exercise appear to play key roles.

African Americans are twice as likely as Caucasians of similar age to develop diabetes. To help reduce this potential epidemic, it is essential that everyone contacts their health care provider and asks them to conduct a simple diabetes test to determine if diabetes is present. HHS Secretary Tommy G. Thompson said,
“We are asking African Americans to find out if they are at risk for type 2 diabetes, and we’re showing them how to take action to prevent it. The key is regular physical activity and modest weight loss—as little as 5 to 7 percent of your body weight. I want to encourage people to take this message of good health to their families and their communities, so we can put an end to the diabetes epidemic.”

Yé Olde Pharmacy, is the largest diabetes pharmacy in the state of Wisconsin; along with Diabetes Direct at 5320 N. Port Washington Road in Glendale, the expert staff continues to help the diabetic patient and community. Ye Olde Pharmacy also carries the best quality and largest supply of diabetes related products such as blood glucose testing monitors, insulin storage cases, custom fitted diabetic shoes, and much more.

Time has come to increase your awareness of this disease. Having your health care professional conduct a diabetes test and educating yourself of the disease could prevent health issues in your future.