Why is diabetes an epidemic?

In the United States, diabetes affects everyone. It costs us $98 billion each year to care for the 16 million people living with diabetes. One third of these people actually go undiagnosed or under-treated, which then leads to more severe complications and higher hospital bills. However, it doesn't have to be this way.

The good news is that every American has the power to stop the diabetes epidemic. You can open the lines of communication between your friends, family and community. You can increase your awareness about your own health, and voice your concerns about others who may be at risk. You can also urge your congressional leaders to give diabetes the amount of exposure and support it deserves in light of its cost in life and dollars to the American public. In other words, you can take the lead against this epidemic and turn the tragedy of ignorance into a lifetime of better health for all Americans.

Why is diabetes an epidemic?

• #1 cause of blindness
• #1 cause of amputation
• #1 cause of kidney disease
• #1 cause of impotence
• #7 cause of death
• One out of 17 people in the U.S. suffer from the disease
• Number of diabetes cases has increased 49% since 1990
• A 165% increase in diabetes cases is anticipated by 2050
• 75% of people living with diabetes die of heart disease or stroke at a younger age than the general population
• Middle-aged people with diabetes have death rates twice as high as middle-aged people without the disease