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Diabetes and Individuals with Disabilities
Contributions By: Ronda Benedict, Public Health InternMay, 2012
Developed with grant funds from the Nevada Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities
People First of Nevada
+What is Diabetes?
A disease that occurs in the body when it can not use glucose normally
Glucose is the body’s main source of fuel
There are two types: Type 1 Diabetes
Chronic Lifelong Disease Can not be prevented
Type 2 Diabetes Can be prevented
+Type 2 Diabetes Happens when your body makes insulin but cant use it
the right way.
Most common form of Diabetes.
Usually occurs slowly over time – you may not know you have it.
Can prevent or delay it with proper diet and exercise.
Usually happens in adulthood but also in younger adults.
+Risk Factors
Family History/Genes High blood pressure/Cholesterol
Low activity level
Poor Diet You are what you eat!
Excess body weight
Weight gain due to medications
+Body Mass Index Comparison
Body Mass Index (BMI) is what many health professionals use to see how much fat you have on your body. The higher the number, the more fat you have. The more fat you have, the greater the risk for health complications.
+Symptoms
Fatigue
Hunger
Increased thirst
Infections that heal slowly
Blurred vision
Pain or numbness in feet or hands
If untreated can lead to heart attack, stroke, amputations
+Pre-Diabetes
When glucose levels are high but not high enough to be considered “Diabetic”
Can avoid getting full blown diabetes with Diet – avoid foods with lots of sugar and fats Exercise regularly
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