The CDC estimates about 11 million people in the United States have diabetes and haven’t been diagnosed, part of roughly 40 million Americans living with the disease. It’s the seventh leading cause of death in the country, and the South tends to carry a heavier share of cases than other regions. The concerning part is that complications like heart disease, kidney failure, nerve damage and amputation can develop before anyone notices a symptom.
The warning signs are easy to dismiss, especially here on the Suncoast. Excessive thirst, extreme fatigue and frequent urination can all get blamed on heat, humidity or a busy week. Doctors say prediabetes is a genuine fork in the road: people can either go on to develop diabetes or take steps to prevent it. Type 2 diabetes is also the leading cause of amputation in the United States, which is why early detection matters so much.
One simple step cuts through the uncertainty. At your next checkup, ask for your blood sugar and A1C numbers, and ask a family member or neighbor if they know theirs. If you’re already managing diabetes, keep the conversation going with your care team about what’s working. When was the last time you or someone you love had those numbers checked?
