There is no cure, but the sad irony is that diabetes, a killer that stalks our friends and our family members, can be controlled. A proper diet, exercise, and medication can prevent unnecessary deaths. The challenge is educating those at risk about effective, life-saving tools available to them. Genetic, environmental, and cultural factors weigh heavily with diabetes. You are at risk of developing the disease if you have high blood pressure, high cholesterol, lead an inactive lifestyle, are over 45 years old, obese, or a smoker.
Diabetes also affects a disproportionate number of minorities.
Hispanics, African Americans, Native Americans, Asian and Pacific Island Americans are much more likely to develop diabetes. One out of ten Hispanics has diabetes and for those over the age of 45, the probability increases to one in four. Research shows that approximately 16 million Americans live with diabetes in this country, but less than 10 million of those cases have been diagnosed. I am especially concerned with the high incidence of diabetes in South Texas, particularly among those who lack the resources to control the disease. Limited access to health care precludes many Americans from receiving adequate preventative counseling and information.