Ever of Diabetes Reported in U.S. at 15.7 Million Americans HeartInfo Commentary Diabetes is increasing in the United States. It is a more potent risk factor for heart attacks and strokes for women than men. Diabetics tend to have higher triglyceride levels and lower good HDL levels.
Diabetics are also at increased risk for renal failure, especially if they have high blood pressure.
It is important for all persons with diabetes to increase their exercise and to achieve an optimal body weight with the help of their physician. Their blood pressure and lipid values should also be closely monitored. The sharp rise in the number of people with the disease is mainly attributed to Americans becoming fatter and less active over the years. Another factor that has contributed to its rise is the aging American population. In 1958, 1.6 million people had diabetes.