Diabetes Diabetes More than 80,000 people in Utah are faced with diabetes. The disease is caused by the body not producing or properly using insulin, a hormone needed to convert food into energy. Approximately 34,000 people in Salt Lake County have diabetes, and about half of those individuals aren't even aware they have the disease. Many don't recognize that symptoms, like unexplained thirst and frequent urination, are associated with diabetes. Without such knowledge people are living dangerously.
Diabetes can cause serious health problems, including blindness, kidney failure and nerve damage.
The disease is known as the leading cause of blindness in adults ages 25-74. People with diabetes are two time more likely to have a heart attack or stroke than people without diabetes. Diabetes is a disease that affects individuals of every age, gender, and ethnicity. Those most likely to develop diabetes are those who are obese and lead inactive lifestyles. Native Americans, Black Americans, and people of Hispanic origin are also more likely to develop diabetes.