Diabetes is a leading cause of serious health complications, including heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), diabetes is a global health crisis, with an estimated 463 million people living with the disease worldwide. In the United States, diabetes is a significant public health issue, with over 34 million people living with the disease.
The prevalence of diabetes is increasing globally, with WHO estimating that the number of people with diabetes could reach 700 million by 2045. In the United States, the number of people with diabetes is also on the rise. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the number of adults with diabetes in the United States has more than doubled in the past 20 years, from 8.9% in 1999-2000 to 21.0% in 2017-2018.
That's an 11% increase in less than 20 years.
Currently accepted risk factors for diabetes include being overweight or obese, having a family history of the disease, and leading a sedentary lifestyle. People of certain racial and ethnic groups, including African Americans, Hispanic Americans, and Native Americans, tend to develop the disease at an increased rate.
Good news is that diabetes is a preventable and treatable condition. Making lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet and getting regular exercise, can help prevent, reverse or manage the disease. Type 2 has been cured, or "put in remission", with weight loss. Type 1 is a bit trickier and where I'm looking to pick up the slack.
700 million people worldwide in 20 years, and yet we, collectively, pretend we have no idea?
It's time for people to begin taking ownership for their health. Doctors and modern medicine are a tired, tired excuse for not getting sustainable results. I'm looking to make healers of diabetics themselves.
Who's with me?