The South Carolina Governor’s Challenge Group is a coalition of Veterans, state agencies/leaders and mental health professionals committed to raising awareness and implementing programs aimed at Veteran suicide prevention.
Every month we will highlight a national health or awareness theme, providing brief information and resources to help Veterans, families, and communities stay informed and connected to important issues affecting their well-being.
This Month the Governor's Challenge Team is Highlighting Diabetes Awareness
November is Diabetes Awareness Month, a nationwide observance dedicated to increasing public awareness about diabetes, its risk factors, and the importance of prevention and management.
Diabetes is a chronic health condition affecting how the body turns food into energy. When you eat, your body breaks food down into glucose (blood sugar), which enters your bloodstream. Insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, helps move glucose from the blood into the body's cells where it is used for energy or stored for later use.
When a person has diabetes, the body either does not produce enough insulin, cannot use insulin effectively, or both. As a result, blood glucose levels can become too high, leading to serious health complications over time.
According to the South Carolina Department of Public Health, approximately 1 in 7 adults in South Carolina have diabetes, representing more than 556,000 adults statewide. Diabetes is also the seventh-leading cause of death in South Carolina, contributing to nearly 2,000 deaths each year.
The United States Department of Veterans’ Affairs reports that diabetes affects nearly 25% of patients receiving care through the VA healthcare system, meaning Veterans are about 2.5 times more likely to have diabetes than non-veterans.
Main Types of Diabetes
- Type 1 Diabetes - disease in which the body's immune system attacks the insulin-producing cells of the pancreas. It is typically diagnosed during childhood or early adulthood and requires lifelong insulin therapy.
- Type 2 Diabetes - Occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn't produce enough insulin to maintain normal blood sugar levels. It is the most common form of diabetes and is often associated with lifestyle and genetic factors. In many cases, it can be prevented or delayed.
- Prediabetes - A condition in which blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet high enough for a diagnosis of Type 2 diabetes. It serves as an important warning sign and provides an opportunity for prevention through lifestyle changes.
* Gestational Diabetes is a very common type of diabetes. It develops during pregnancy and is one of the most common pregnancy-related health conditions. While it often resolves after childbirth, it can increase the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life.
Can Diabetes be prevented?
Currently, Type 1 diabetes cannot be prevented. However, many cases of Type 2 diabetes can be prevented or delayed, even among individuals with a family history of the disease.
People may be at increased risk if they:
- Have a parent or sibling with Type 2 diabetes.
- Have been diagnosed with prediabetes.
- Have blood glucose levels between 100 and 125 mg/dL.
To reduce your risk:
- Maintain a healthy body weight.
- Engage in regular physical activity, such as a brisk 30-minute walk at least five days per week.
- Eat a balanced, nutritious diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
- Work with your healthcare provider to monitor your health and risk factors.
Managing Diabetes
Understanding your diagnosis is the first step toward successfully managing diabetes and reducing the risk of complications.
Key strategies include:
- Healthy Eating - Following a balanced diet can help maintain healthy blood sugar levels and improve overall health.
- Physical Activity - Regular exercise improves insulin sensitivity and can help control blood glucose levels, even when weight loss does not occur.
- Medical Guidance - Work closely with your healthcare provider and follow recommended treatment plans. Routine screenings, including annual eye exams and foot examinations, are essential for preventing long-term complications.
- Emotional Support - Living with a chronic condition can be challenging. Talk with someone you trust, such as a family member, friend, mentor, or healthcare professional. Seeking support early can make a significant difference.
- Management – Controlling other related health conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol and triglycerides, cigarette smoking, and obesity can help reduce complications.
What can you do about it?
If you are living with diabetes or concerned about your risk:
- Don't wait until health concerns worsen. Early action and support matter.
- Stay connected with your support network. Isolation can make managing health challenges more difficult.
- Use available resources, including your primary care provider, local healthcare organizations, and VA services available to Veterans and eligible family members.
- Schedule regular health screenings and follow-up appointments.
Diabetes is a serious but manageable condition. Through education, prevention, healthy lifestyle choices, and support from healthcare professionals and loved ones, individuals can take meaningful steps toward living healthier lives.
This Diabetes Awareness Month, take time to learn your risk, encourage others to get screened, and support those living with diabetes.
Source:
https://www.health.harvard.edu/topics/diabetes
https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/community-health-outreach/national-diabetes-month
VA Office of Research & Development