Millions of Americans Are Unaware That They Have Diabetes. Don't Be One of Them
November is Diabetes Awareness Month, a perfect time to call attention to a silent threat to the health of millions of Americans. Type 2 diabetes often goes unnoticed because symptoms typically don’t appear until the condition has advanced. Your blood sugar can remain chronically elevated for months or years before you realize something is amiss. In fact, close to one out of four US adults have diabetes and are unaware of it.
That’s why the team of medical professionals here at Ross Medical Group urges you to schedule a diabetes screening and risk assessment. Ross Medical Group providers strive to provide exceptional care to the Miami, Florida, and surrounding communities, including personalized chronic disease management. Preventing chronic disease, as well as early diagnosis is crucial to remaining as healthy as possible.
Get screened for diabetes and prediabetes
Knowing your blood sugar levels is a vital step in detecting diabetes or prediabetes early. A quick blood test reveals key markers like A1C and glucose tolerance, providing valuable insight.
With early detection, you can take action to manage your blood sugar and prevent complications. Don’t wait; schedule a diabetes screening to stay proactive about your health.
Here’s a quick guide to A1C levels:
- Normal A1C: Below 5.7%
- Prediabetes A1C: Between 5.7% and 6.4%
- Diabetes A1C: 6.5% or higher
Regularly checking your A1C levels can help you stay on top of your glycemic health, especially if you are at risk.
Who’s at risk for type 2 diabetes?
You’re at an elevated risk for type 2 diabetes if you:
- Are overweight or obese
- Have high blood pressure or cholesterol
- Have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Have a history of heart disease
- Smoke
- Are sedentary
- Are age 35 or older
- Were diagnosed with gestational diabetes
- Have close relatives with diabetes
Additionally, certain groups are at a higher risk of type 2 diabetes, including:
- African American
- Asian American
- American Indian
- Hispanic / Latino Americans
- Pacific Islander
Taking prompt action now means you can prevent or slow the progression of diabetes.
The role of nutritional counseling in preventing and managing type 2 diabetes
Nutritional counseling can be a game-changer in preventing and managing diabetes. A balanced diet filled with essential nutrients helps stabilize blood sugar, boost energy, and reduce the risk of chronic disease. Ross Medical Group specialists create customized nutrition plans that align with your health goals, whether that’s weight management or improved blood sugar control.
In each session, your specialist tailors advice to fit your lifestyle and preferences, making healthy eating feel easy and sustainable. A plan designed around your tastes and routines is a powerful tool in gaining control of your blood sugar, helping you feel better and reducing the chances of complications.
Schedule a diabetes screening and risk assessment
Taking control of your health starts with knowing risk factors. If you’re concerned about type 2 diabetes, now is the time to act. A diabetes risk assessment can provide you with valuable insights into your current health, and the steps you can take to prevent or manage diabetes.
Contact us at Ross Medical Group today to schedule your assessment and take a positive step toward a healthier, diabetes-free future.