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Diabetes and Individuals with Disabilities

Contributions By: Ronda Benedict, Public Health InternMay, 2012

Developed with grant funds from the Nevada Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities

People First of Nevada

+What is Diabetes?

A disease that occurs in the body when it can not use glucose normally

Glucose is the body’s main source of fuel There are two types:

Type 1 Diabetes Chronic Lifelong Disease Can not be prevented

Type 2 Diabetes Can be prevented

+Chronic Health Conditions Among People with Disabilities

+Type 2 Diabetes Happens when your body makes insulin but cant use it

the right way. Most common form of Diabetes. Usually occurs slowly over time – you may not know

you have it. Can prevent or delay it with proper diet and exercise. Usually happens in adulthood but also in younger

adults.

+Risk Factors

Family History/Genes High blood pressure/Cholesterol

Low activity level Poor Diet

You are what you eat!

Excess body weight Weight gain due to medications

+Body Mass Index Comparison Body Mass Index (BMI) is what many health professionals use to see how much fat you have on your body. The higher the number, the more fat you have. The more fat you have, the greater the risk for health complications.

+Symptoms

Fatigue Hunger Increased thirst Infections that heal slowly Blurred vision Pain or numbness in feet or hands If untreated can lead to heart attack, stroke,

amputations

+Pre-Diabetes

When glucose levels are high but not high enough to be considered “Diabetic”

Can avoid getting full blown diabetes with Diet – avoid foods with lots of sugar and fats Exercise regularly

+Prevention/Treatment

Currently no cure Keep weight down by regular exercise and diet low in

fats and sugars Most effective way to prevent Type 2 diabetes

Testing blood glucose levels if your doctor tells you to. Talking to you Doctor

Communication is key!