Today is World Diabetes Day.

In my first couple of posts for Blogging for a Cure, I wrote about the ways that diabetes has impacted me, personally. I've had friends with Type 1 (childhood) diabetes. I have immediate relatives with Type 2 (adult) diabetes. Right now, I am overweight, and I am concerned that I may get diabetes myself. I'm beginning to take some action to take better care of myself, lose weight and get into better shape, so that I can avoid getting diabetes and other health problems that go along with an unhealthy, sedentary lifestyle. Like most lifestyle changes, making a permanent change for the better is going to take time and commitment, but I'm determined to get better.

Like me, you have been impacted by diabetes. The statistics say it's almost certain. The latest estimate is that 18.2 million Americans have diabetes. Right now, there are roughly 290 million residents of the United States. That means over 6% of Americans have diabetes right now. Not only that, the Centers for Disease Control estimates [PDF document - Acrobat Reader required] that in 2003, 24% of Americans ages 20 years and older are obese! Given the well-documented connection between Type 2 diabetes and obesity, either you or someone close to you will almost certainly get diabetes.

The costs of diabetes to the economy are enormous. In 2002, the costs directly and indirectly attributable to diabetes were $132 billion. Yes, 132 billion dollars. Per capita medical expenditures for people with diabetes were over $13,000 versus about $2,500 for people without diabetes. Because diabetes costs so much to treat, year after year, for those that have it, medical insurance rates for everyone are increased. So, even if you don't have diabetes, aren't overweight, and don't know anyone either with diabetes or at risk for it, you are impacted. Diabetes affects everyone, either directly or indirectly.

Since you and I are impacted by diabetes, what can we do about it?

Well, I perused the American Diabetes Association's web site for ideas and guidance, and here's what I came up with. I'm sure there's much more, but the following things can get you started:

1. Most important - live a healthy lifestyle. Keep your weight under control. If you're overweight or obese, begin a program to lose weight with the help and guidance of your doctor. Eat a healthy diet and get regular exercise. Again, your doctor can guide you in the best ways for you to do these things.

2. Register to become a Diabetes Advocate. If you do, the American Diabetes Association will keep you informed on additional ways you can help, bills regarding diabetes being considered in Congress and your state legislature, and so on. Registering costs nothing - just a simple form to fill out at the web site.