Did you know that over 38 million Americans have diabetes, and 1 in 5 of them don’t even know they have it? This staggering statistic highlights the importance of raising awareness about diabetes and understanding both the risk factors and the steps we can take to prevent it.
At Epic Medical, we pride ourselves on being leaders in family medicine and concierge primary care in Fox Chapel. Led by Dr. Skvarla, our dedicated team is here to help you manage your health with comprehensive care and personalized attention. Whether you want to learn about diabetes prevention or need support in managing your health risks, we’re ready to assist you. Schedule an appointment today to create a care plan tailored to you and your family's needs.
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As you read on, we'll explore the key aspects of diabetes, its risk factors, and effective preventive measures you can take to maintain a healthier lifestyle.
Understanding Diabetes
Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how your body uses glucose (sugar) for energy. When you have diabetes, your body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or can’t use it effectively, resulting in high levels of sugar in your blood.
There are three main types of diabetes: type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes.
- Type 1 is typically diagnosed during childhood and is caused by an autoimmune response.
- Type 2 is more common and often develops later in life due to lifestyle factors such as diet and physical activity.
- Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy and usually resolves after childbirth, but having it increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later on.
Risk Factors for Type 2 Diabetes
While the exact cause of diabetes is not fully understood, several risk factors can increase your likelihood of developing the condition. These include:
- Family history: A family history of diabetes increases your chances of developing it.
- Lifestyle habits: A sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, and obesity can contribute to insulin resistance and increase the risk of type 2 diabetes.
- Age: As you age, your risk for diabetes also increases, especially after the age of 45.
- Ethnicity: Certain ethnic groups, such as African Americans, Hispanic/Latino Americans, Native Americans, and Asian Americans, have a higher risk of developing diabetes.
- Medical conditions: Conditions such as high blood pressure, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and depression have been linked to an increased risk of diabetes.
Prevention Strategies
While some factors like family history or age are out of our control, there are still many ways we can lower our risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Here are some effective preventive strategies that Dr. Skvarla and our team recommend:
- Maintain a healthy weight: Being overweight or obese is a significant risk factor for type 2 diabetes. By maintaining a healthy weight through regular exercise and a balanced diet, you can decrease your chances of developing the condition.
- Eat healthy foods: Eating a diet rich in whole grains, lean protein, fruits, and vegetables can help control blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of diabetes. Avoiding processed foods and sugary drinks is also crucial.
- Stay physically active: Regular physical activity helps your body use insulin more effectively and can lower your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.
- Monitor your blood glucose levels: Knowing your blood sugar levels can give you an idea of your risk of developing diabetes. If you have prediabetes (higher than normal blood sugar level), making lifestyle changes now can prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes.
- Get regular check-ups: Regular visits to your primary care physician can help you stay on top of your health and catch any potential issues, including prediabetes or diabetes, early on.
How Epic Medical Can Help
At Epic Medical, we believe that prevention is key to maintaining good health. That's why we offer comprehensive family medicine and concierge primary care services with a focus on diabetes management and prevention.
Our team can help you understand your risk of developing diabetes by conducting screenings, providing education about lifestyle modifications, and creating personalized care plans. We also offer physical therapy services to support your journey towards a healthier lifestyle.
As part of our concierge primary care approach, we provide 24/7 access to our physicians and same-day appointments, so you can always get the support you need when it comes to managing your health. With regular check-ups and ongoing support from our team, you can be proactive in preventing diabetes and maintaining your overall well-being.
Secure a Healthier Future with Epic Medical
Diabetes awareness and proactive prevention are essential components of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and personalized care can make all the difference. With Epic Medical by your side, adopting preventive measures and managing health risks becomes a collaborative and supported effort.
Schedule an appointment with Dr. Skvarla at Epic Medical today to take control of your health journey. Our family medicine and concierge primary care services are designed to help you manage and prevent diabetes effectively.
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