Women Face Increased Risks From Diabetes

By Angela Marshall, MD

Comprehensive Women’s Health

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Women Face Increased Risks From Diabetes

Recent estimates project that as many as one in three American adults will have diabetes in 2050, and an additional 79 million Americans are at high risk for developing type 2 diabetes. The American Diabetes Association estimates that the total national cost of diagnosed diabetes in the United States is $245 billion.

Diabetes is a serious disease. If it isn't managed, it can damage many parts of the body, leading to heart attacks, strokes, amputation, blindness, kidney failure, and nerve damage. But there is good news diabetes complications can be prevented or delayed by properly managing your health.

Women are more likely than men to develop chronic diseases, such as diabetes, and to suffer disproportionately from disability compared to men. It is important for women to know their risk for diabetes and take steps to reduce the chances of developing the disease. Evidence shows that if a woman with prediabetes loses 5-7% of her body weight and increases her physical activity she can prevent or delay diabetes. Early interventions and access to preventive care services are also important for women to reduce the risk of developing other diseases, such as cardiovascular disease.

There are many risk factors for diabetes, such as having a family history of diabetes, being obese or overweight, having uncontrolled high blood pressure, and being inactive.

Steps to lower one's risk for diabetes include eating a more healthy diet with more fruits and vegetables, being more physically active, and keeping your blood pressure under control. It is also recommended to not smoke.

If you have questions or concerns about diabetes it is a good idea to speak to your healthcare provider. In addition, more information about diabetes is available from the American Diabetes Association at diabetes.org.