Diabetes Health Center

How much of an impact does diabetes have on the nation?

  • In 2006, diabetes was the seventh leading cause of death listed on US death certificates. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death among individuals with diabetes. About 68 percent of people with diabetes die of heart disease or stroke. Overall, total health care and related costs for the treatment of diabetes run about $174 billion annually. Indirect costs, including disability payments, time lost from work and reduced productivity, totaled $58 billion. Direct medical costs for diabetes care, including hospitalizations, medical care and treatment supplies, totaled $116 billion.

When should I be checked for diabetes?

  • You can ask your doctor at any time to be checked for diabetes. A physical examination may alert your doctor to abnormal blood pressure, which may lead to further testing. People 45 years of age and older should consider getting tested for prediabetes or diabetes. Those younger than 45 who are overweight, obese or extremely obese should consider being tested for the condition. If you have a family history of diabetes, it is good measure to be tested.
Review Date: 
August 13, 2012
Last Updated:
June 2, 2014
Source:
dailyrx.com