Diabetes:

The Silent Killer

Diabetes is the 18th leading cause of death in Cobb County and the 10th leading cause of death in Douglas County.

Diabetes is a disease in which the body is unable to produce or use insulin properly. Insulin is needed to allow sugars into the cells of the body for energy and normal body processes. There are two kinds of diabetes:

Type I

Usually develops in childhood or adolescence. These individuals need shots of insulin to manage the disease. 5-10% of all cases are Type I.

Diabetes Is:
  • The leading cause of blindness in 20-74 year olds
  • The leading cause of end stage kidney disease
  • The leading cause of amputations of the lower extremities not due to injury and heart disease
  • Many individuals who die of heart disease or kidney failure have these problems because of Diabetes.

Type II

Usually develops in adults over 40 and those who are over weight (at varying ages). The numbers of people with this form of Diabetes are rising in the USA due to obesity. Type II accounts for 90% or more of all Diabetes cases. These individuals usually manage their disease with oral medications and or diet management.

Eight million Americans have some form of Diabetes. Diabetes is more common in African Americans, Hispanics/Latinos, American Indians and Pacific Islanders. Diabetes is the 18th leading cause of death in Cobb County and the 10th leading cause of death in Douglas County. This accounts for approximately three percent of the population in each county.

Know The Symptoms

Diabetes Death Rates+
  • Georgia has 19.6 deaths/100,000 people
  • Cobb has 18.7 deaths/100,00 people
  • Douglas has 18.6 deaths/100,000 people

+(1993-1997, age-adjusted rates source: GA DHR, Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion Branch)

Most individuals with Diabetes do not know they have the disease because they have few symptoms. If you develop these symptoms call your health care provider:

  • Excessive thirst
  • Frequent urination
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Always feeling tired
  • Always hungry
  • Wounds that will not heal
  • Vaginal infections

Diabetes can be detected with very simple blood tests. If you have a family history of Diabetes, inform your health care provider and request Diabetes blood testing. You can prevent Type II Diabetes by keeping your weight in the normal range for your height, getting 30 minutes of physical activity/day, eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables and not smoking. The American Diabetes Association has more information on Diabetes and a Diabetes Quiz.

For more information on diabetes, contact Healthy Behaviors at 770-432-7937.