SAN DIEGO — According to the Centers for Disease Control, more than 38 million Americans are affected by Type 2 Diabetes. That’s more than 11% of the population. Top risk factors include body composition, age, family history and race or ethnicity.
Type 2 Diabetes is associated with increased mortality in ethnically diverse populations, including Hispanic, African American and Indigenous American adults. Dr. Heidi Schwarzwald, Chief Medical Officer at Signify Health, joins our Laura Cavanaugh to discuss critical steps and strategies you can implement to prevent and manage diabetes.
Diabetes does not discriminate with age. Though adults ages 45–64 receive the majority of new diabetes diagnoses in the U.S., the country has also seen increases in disease prevalence among those 18-44. Even more concerning is that nearly 90% of those who have prediabetes are not aware of their status.
One of the top risk factors for developing Type 2 Diabetes is race and ethnicity. Type 2 Diabetes is associated with increased mortality in ethnically diverse populations. Both Hispanic and African American adults are 60% more likely than non-Hispanic and non-African American adults to be diagnosed with diabetes by a physician, with both populations being more likely to die or be hospitalized for the treatment of end-stage renal disease related to diabetes.
Kick-starting lifestyle changes that prioritize physical activity and promote a healthy weight is one of the best things you can do to manage Type 2 Diabetes. Small changes can make a big impact. Modest weight reduction, even 5-10% of baseline weight, and increased physical activity to at least 150 minutes per week can reduce the incidence of diabetes by more than 50%. Diabetes knows no boundaries. It impacts individuals across all age groups and ethnicities. The best step you can take to mitigate your risk from diabetes is to know your numbers – weight, blood pressure, cholesterol and glucose.
The American Diabetes Association recommends getting screened for prediabetes starting at age 35, especially if you have any risk factors that would increase your probability of developing diabetes.
A healthier you starts at home. Signify Health can bring flexible, comprehensive and personalized medical care to your door. These in-home health evaluations with experienced clinicians are frequently available at no cost to you. Check your insurance plan.
Signify Health in-home health visits may be $0 out-of-pocket cost, as part of your health plan coverage. In one easy appointment, you receive a detailed picture of your health. To learn more and to book your appointment, visit www.hellosignify.com
Sponsored by: Signify Health, a CVS Company