Type 2 diabetes is more common after age 45, especially among overweight individuals. Symptoms develop slowly and may be so mild they go unnoticed for many years. As a result, complications may develop, including cardiovascular problems, kidney disease, nerve damage, and blindness. African-Americans, Hispanics and Native Americans are at increased risk for the disease and its complications. Others at risk are those who are overweight, aging, have a family history of diabetes, or do not exercise.
Diabetes can also cause problems for pregnant women and their babies.
This funding will help many people live longer, healthier lives. An estimated 500,000 people have diabetes, but remain undiagnosed. People must take charge of their diabetes so that they can avoid its devastating complications. Specifically, those in minority communities who are at higher risk for the disease must make a concerted effort to help us detect the disease so that we can help in the monitoring and management of it. The health campaign is intended to address the diabetes related needs of New Yorkers at highest risk for diabetes in both urban and rural areas.