Diabetes is a chronic health condition that, if unmanaged, can lead to severe complications like heart disease, kidney failure, vision loss, and nerve damage. By spreading awareness, encouraging screenings, and promoting healthy lifestyle choices, Diabetes Awareness Month helps empower people to take control of their health.

Concerned about your risk of diabetes? Schedule an appointment for a comprehensive screening and personalized care plan and if you feel language might be a barrier, know that every TrueCare location has Spanish-speaking doctors and staff who can take your call.

Schedule an appointment

What is Diabetes Awareness Month?

Diabetes Awareness Month is a global initiative dedicated to spreading awareness about the effects of diabetes, educating people about prevention, and advocating for early detection and proper management. Celebrated annually in November, this awareness campaign aims to provide communities with the resources and knowledge they need to tackle diabetes head-on.

By engaging individuals, healthcare providers, and organizations, Diabetes Awareness Month fosters conversations around healthy living, access to care, and supporting those living with diabetes. It also highlights the importance of annual check-ups and lifestyle changes to reduce the risk of developing diabetes or its complications.

The History and Significance of Diabetes Awareness Month

Diabetes Awareness Month began as a coordinated effort to address the growing prevalence of diabetes worldwide. Initially launched to educate the public and inspire support, it has grown into a critical campaign that unites healthcare providers, advocacy organizations, and families to promote diabetes prevention and care.

The month also commemorates World Diabetes Day on November 14th, the birthday of Dr. Frederick Banting, who co-discovered insulin—a life-saving treatment for diabetes. This global day of action emphasizes the ongoing need for research, awareness, and accessible healthcare for those living with diabetes.

Community participation during Diabetes Awareness Month plays a pivotal role in funding research, supporting individuals, and spreading life-changing information. Through events, education, and screenings, families can come together to prioritize prevention and early intervention.

The Diabetes Awareness Month Ribbon and Color

The symbol for Diabetes Awareness Month is the blue diabetes ribbon, which represents unity and global support for diabetes awareness. Blue was chosen as a symbol of health and hope, and it aligns with the blue circle used as the international logo for diabetes awareness.

During November, people can show their support by:

• Wearing blue ribbons or clothing to spark conversations about diabetes awareness.
• Participating in community events like walks, fundraisers, or health screenings.
• Sharing educational resources online to spread awareness.

By participating in these efforts, individuals help bring attention to the importance of diabetes education, research, and early diagnosis—empowering communities to take meaningful action.

Understanding Diabetes: Types and Symptoms

Diabetes is a chronic condition that occurs when the body is unable to properly regulate blood sugar levels. It affects people of all ages and can lead to serious health complications if not managed effectively. Understanding the types of diabetes and recognizing the symptoms early are key steps in prevention and treatment.

There are three main types of diabetes: Type 1 diabetes, Type 2 diabetes, and gestational diabetes. While they share some similarities, each type has distinct causes and effects. Being aware of common symptoms—such as increased thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue—can help individuals seek timely medical care.

You can learn more about diabetes and explore the early warning signs of prediabetes on our blog.

Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. As a result, the body is unable to produce insulin, a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels. This type of diabetes is often diagnosed in children and young adults, but it can develop at any age.

While the exact cause of Type 1 diabetes is unknown, genetic and environmental factors may play a role. People with Type 1 diabetes require lifelong insulin therapy and careful monitoring of blood sugar levels to stay healthy.

Symptoms of Type 1 diabetes include:

• Extreme thirst and frequent urination
• Sudden weight loss despite regular eating
• Blurred vision
• Persistent fatigue

Concerned about your child’s health? Schedule a consultation with our pediatric care specialists at TrueCare to discuss diabetes care and management.

Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes and is often linked to lifestyle factors such as poor diet, physical inactivity, and excess weight. Unlike Type 1 diabetes, the body still produces insulin, but it either doesn’t produce enough or cannot use it effectively—leading to insulin resistance.

This type of diabetes often develops gradually over time and can be prevented or managed with lifestyle changes, including a healthy diet, regular exercise, and weight management. Early diagnosis is critical to reducing the risk of complications such as heart disease, kidney damage, and nerve issues.

Symptoms of Type 2 diabetes include:

• Frequent thirst and urination
• Increased hunger
• Tingling or numbness in hands and feet
• Slow-healing wounds or infections

Taking steps toward a healthier lifestyle can have a significant impact on managing or preventing Type 2 diabetes.

Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy when hormonal changes cause insulin resistance, resulting in elevated blood sugar levels. While it usually resolves after childbirth, gestational diabetes can have long-term effects on both the mother and baby if left untreated.

Risks associated with gestational diabetes include:

• Higher birth weight, which can lead to delivery complications
• Increased risk of Type 2 diabetes later in life for both mother and child
• Preterm birth and respiratory distress for the baby

Expectant mothers are encouraged to undergo routine screenings during pregnancy to detect and manage gestational diabetes early. With proper medical care, healthy eating habits, and regular physical activity, most women can effectively manage their blood sugar levels and ensure a healthy pregnancy.

How Do I Know If I Have Diabetes?

Recognizing the early signs of diabetes is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. Diabetes often develops gradually, and its symptoms may be overlooked until they become severe. By identifying the warning signs early, individuals can seek medical care, prevent complications, and take control of their health.

Common symptoms of diabetes include:

• Increased thirst and frequent urination
• Unexplained weight loss despite regular eating
• Persistent fatigue or extreme tiredness
• Blurred vision
• Tingling or numbness in the hands and feet
• Slow-healing wounds or frequent infections
• Increased hunger even after meals

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to schedule a screening as soon as possible. Early detection is key to managing diabetes effectively and preventing serious health complications.

Diabetes Statistics: Why Awareness and Prevention Matter

The growing prevalence of diabetes highlights the urgent need for awareness, prevention, and proper management. Diabetes impacts millions of people across the United States and is a leading cause of severe health complications, disability, and death.

Here are some key statistics that underscore the importance of Diabetes Awareness Month:

From the CDC FastStats on Diabetes:

• Prevalence: 16.2% of adults aged 20 and older in the U.S. have diabetes (diagnosed or undiagnosed), based on data from 2017-2020.
• Physician Visits: There were 38.2 million physician office visits for Type 2 diabetes as the primary diagnosis.
• Emergency Department Visits: 579,000 emergency department visits were for Type 2 diabetes as the primary diagnosis.
• Mortality: Diabetes was the 8th leading cause of death in the U.S., with 101,209 deaths reported in 2022. This equates to a death rate of 30.4 per 100,000 people.

From the CDC National Diabetes Statistics Report:

• Total Cases: 38.4 million people in the U.S. have diabetes, accounting for 11.6% of the population.
• Prediabetes: 97.6 million adults have prediabetes, representing 38.0% of the adult population.
• Age Impact: Diabetes disproportionately affects older adults, with 29.2% of individuals aged 65 and older diagnosed—the highest rate among all age groups.
• Complications: Diabetes is the leading cause of new blindness among adults aged 18-64, and 39.2% of adults with diabetes have chronic kidney disease (stages 1-4).

These statistics underscore the importance of raising awareness about diabetes prevention, early detection, and management. By taking action—such as improving lifestyle habits, undergoing regular screenings, and spreading awareness—individuals and communities can reduce the impact of diabetes.

How to Prevent and Manage Diabetes

Preventing and managing diabetes starts with proactive lifestyle changes and consistent health monitoring. Whether you are at risk for diabetes or already living with the condition, implementing healthy habits can make a significant difference in your overall well-being and long-term health.

Healthy Eating Habits

A balanced diet plays a critical role in preventing and managing diabetes. Consuming nutrient-dense foods helps regulate blood sugar levels and maintain a healthy weight.

Key tips for healthy eating:

• Focus on whole grains, lean proteins, and fresh fruits and vegetables.
• Limit foods high in added sugars, saturated fats, and processed carbohydrates.
• Incorporate healthy fats like avocados, nuts, and olive oil into meals.

Reducing sugar-sweetened beverages, refined snacks, and processed foods can significantly improve blood sugar control. Portion control and mindful eating also help maintain balanced blood glucose levels throughout the day.

Check out more facts about fats and their impact on your diet.

Regular Physical Activity

Staying active is one of the most effective ways to prevent or manage diabetes. Regular exercise helps improve insulin sensitivity, regulate blood sugar levels, and maintain a healthy weight.

Recommended activities include:

• Brisk walking or jogging for at least 30 minutes a day
• Swimming, cycling, or other low-impact cardio workouts
• Yoga or strength training to improve flexibility and muscle health

Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week. Small, consistent efforts can make a significant difference in reducing your risk of diabetes or managing its symptoms.

Monitoring and Regular Check-Ups

Routine health monitoring and regular medical check-ups are essential for preventing diabetes-related complications and making informed adjustments to your care plan.

Why monitoring matters:

• Frequent blood sugar checks help identify patterns and areas for improvement.
• Regular screenings can detect prediabetes or diabetes early when it’s easier to manage.
• Medical check-ups provide an opportunity to adjust treatments, medications, or lifestyle recommendations based on your progress.

At TrueCare, we want to empower you to take control of your health. Through comprehensive and collaborative primary care services, diabetes screenings and personalized health management can be easily integrated into your schedule. For older adults, our dedicated elderly care services provide tailored support to address specific health needs.

Getting Involved During Diabetes Awareness Month

Diabetes Awareness Month is a time to take action, raise awareness, and support ongoing efforts to combat diabetes. Whether through personal initiatives or community involvement, your participation can help make a difference.

Ways to get involved:

• Join local events: Participate in walks, fundraisers, or community events aimed at supporting diabetes research and education.
• Spread awareness: Share facts, stories, and resources on social media using the hashtag #DiabetesAwarenessMonth to reach a wider audience.
• Advocate for change: Support diabetes-related research, education programs, and policies to improve access to care for those affected by diabetes.

Every effort—big or small—contributes to a healthier, more informed community.

Take charge of your health this Diabetes Awareness Month. Schedule an appointment with TrueCare to discuss your risk factors and get proactive about your well-being.

Spanish Resources on Diabetes Awareness

For more information on understanding and managing diabetes, explore these helpful resources in Spanish:

• Qué es la diabetes
• Qué es la prediabetes

TrueCare is committed to providing resources and care to help you and your loved ones live healthier lives.

DISCLAIMER: THIS WEBSITE DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE

The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images, and other material contained on this website are for informational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new healthcare regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you read on this website.

The post Diabetes Awareness Month: Understanding and Preventing Diabetes appeared first on TrueCare.

Diabetes is a medical condition that affects the body’s ability to process sugar. People may have prediabetes and diabetes for several years before the onset of symptoms. There are a few classifications of diabetes based on certain conditions:

• Prediabetes
• Type 1 Diabetes
• Type 2 Diabetes
• Gestational Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes (the most common type) develops when the body is resistant to insulin, which is produced by cells in the body. This causes an increase in insulin levels and eventually an increase in blood sugar. Type 1 diabetes differs in that the body’s immune system causes cells that produce insulin to die, resulting in a lack of insulin in the body. Regardless of the type of diabetes an individual has, diabetics are defined as having far too much glucose in their bloodstream. Diabetes is a problem because it can cause more significant threats to an individual’s health in the future.

Don’t Wait for Symptoms!

If you have risk factors for diabetes, such as a family history of diabetes, being overweight, low exercise levels, unhealthy eating habits, hypertension, or a history of gestational diabetes, make an appointment to have a diabetes screening test. Don’t wait for symptoms to present themselves!

If you have ANY risk factors for diabetes, get a diabetes screening test. Contact us to schedule an appointment.

Risk Factors of Developing Diabetes

Knowing the risk factors associated with diabetes is important for awareness and identification of symptoms of the disease. Some risk factors simply cannot be avoided or controlled, like having family members with diabetes or getting older. However, several risk factors can be avoided if you take steps to manage it properly. Controllable risk factors for diabetes include the following:

• Being overweight
• A lack of physical activity
• High blood pressure
• Unhealthy eating habits

You can lower your risk of getting diabetes (even if you’re prediabetic) by taking control of your health and lifestyle and eliminating these risk factors from your life. Talk to your doctor about managing your weight, beginning an exercise program, maintaining a safe and healthy blood pressure, and changing your diet.

Diabetes Awareness and Prevention

Maintaining your health and being aware of the risks and early signs of prediabetes is the key to staying healthy. It’s far better to be ahead of a sickness or disease rather than dealing with the treatment of it, so aim to get your health, eating habits, weight, and more in top-notch shape as soon as possible. Knowing how to reduce risk factors and make wise lifestyle choices is a key part of preventing diabetes in the first place. As we learn more about this disease, it’s clear that awareness and prevention are an integral part of reducing the impact it has on our world. Studies have found that 2 out of 5 Americans will develop Type 2 diabetes during their lifetime. This is due, in large part, to the lifestyle many of us live, with low activity levels, unhealthy diets, and obesity. The more we learn about diabetes and the impacts it has on our bodies, the more we can motivate ourselves and those around us to make better choices and live healthier lives to minimize our likelihood of developing diabetes.

Symptoms of Diabetes

If you’re not sure whether you or someone you know has diabetes, look for these symptoms. Remember, this is not a comprehensive list of all symptoms, nor should it be used to self-diagnose. If you experience any of these symptoms and think you may be at risk of having or developing diabetes, schedule a visit with your doctor to get screened for diabetes:

• Being hungry and tired regularly, even when you’ve had enough to eat and enough sleep
• Urinating more often and being thirstier than normal
• Having a dry mouth and/or itchy skin
• Blurred vision
• Being easily irritated
• Frequent yeast or other infections
• Slow-healing cuts or sores
• Numbness and/or pain in legs and feet
• Unintentional and unexplained weight loss

Why Hyperglycemia is a Problem

Hyperglycemia means that there is a high level of glucose in the blood, which causes the other symptoms of Type 2 diabetes such as thirst, weight loss and hunger, outlined below. If hyperglycemia remains untreated, it can cause damage to nerves, blood vessels, and organs.

Hyperglycemia puts you at high risk for heart attack and stroke if uncontrolled for a long time. Read 8 Tips for Better Heart Health here.

Thirst

Your body is always trying to achieve homeostasis, or “balance.” High levels of sugar in your blood actually attracts water to balance it out. The water can be pulled from all over your body, including your eyes, causing thirst and frequent urination.

Weight Loss

Insulin is the hormone that tells your body when to absorb sugar and if your cells do not receive that signal, they will not know how to use the energy in your food. Without energy, your body gets weak and tired. At first, it will try to burn fat and muscle instead, but these sources will be used up quickly without replenishment from incoming glucose.

Hunger

Since you are not breaking down and using the glucose that you’re consuming, your body will continue to think you are hungry even when you’re providing it with nutrients. The sooner you are diagnosed with diabetes, the sooner you can start treatment and get your diabetes under control. Most often, diabetes is not “cured,” but it can be managed well. In some cases, catching diabetes early enough and making widespread and effective lifestyle changes can actually reverse the effects of diabetes! Knowing the risk factors of developing diabetes and the symptoms associated with the disease can help you get ahead of it and give yourself a better chance of preventing it or managing it well.

FAQs About Diabetes

What is diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes is a type of diabetes that results from the body’s cells being resistant to insulin. Typically, patients can have insulin resistance and high blood sugars for several years before the onset of symptoms. Type 1 diabetes is a type of disease within the body where it prevents proper production of insulin (a hormone). Both types of diabetes can result in unsafe levels of glucose in the blood and abnormal metabolism of carbohydrates. Diabetes, if left untreated, can be life-threatening depending on the type and severity of the specific case.

What is considered a normal level for blood sugar before meals (or waking up) and after meals?

We recommend consulting with your doctor about specific blood sugar levels for you, but as a rule of thumb, an average “before-meal” blood glucose (blood sugar) level for people with diabetes is 70-110 mg/dl, while after eating (1-2 hours later), the blood sugar goal would be under 140 mg/dl.

Will I have to take insulin if I have Type 2 diabetes?

Not always. If the condition is detected early enough, your body may still be able to produce adequate amounts of insulin if you carefully regulate blood sugar levels over the years.

Is diabetes Type 2 reversible?

You can moderate your Type 2 diabetes, but it can’t be reversed after you’ve been diagnosed. If, however, you have “prediabetes,” or were just diagnosed with Type 2, and then lose a considerable amount of weight, it can put the disease into remission.

How do I learn to accept that I have diabetes?

This can be a challenge for some people at first, but it’s important to work on realigning what you view as “real.” Wishing that you don’t have diabetes won’t make it go away and not getting treatment can have very adverse effects on your body.

How does diabetes affect my body?

Generally, diabetes affects blood vessels and nerves in the body, which means that it can have a direct or indirect impact on virtually every part of the body. Diabetes impacts blood pressure levels and is commonly linked with high cholesterol, and can increase the risk of heart attacks and cardiovascular disease. High blood pressure and cholesterol also raise the risk of having a stroke. Individuals who have diabetes are also prone to other complications in the eyes, such as diabetic retinopathy, which can result in severe eye disease and blindness. It can also bring about kidney issues, such as diabetic nephropathy or chronic kidney failure. Nerve problems, digestive issues, anxiety, erectile dysfunction, lower limb amputation, and more can also come about due to diabetes.

What are some simple ways to prevent and manage diabetes?

There are many ways to help prevent and manage diabetes. Also, certain lifestyle changes will be more effective than others depending on your unique situation. Generally, people who are looking to minimize their risk of or to manage their diabetes should make healthier choices when it comes to their diets and activity levels. Eating less, drinking plenty of water (especially before your meal), getting more exercise every day (e.g. 30 minutes, 5 days a week), making healthier food choices, snack on veggies (instead of sugary foods), keep track of your food consumption, and more will all help with prevention and management of diabetes. If you have questions about diabetes, such as getting tests, finding treatment, or just having someone to talk to, contact your doctor. If you are looking for a Primary Care physician, find a provider here. TrueCare provides truly care about delivering quality, compassionate health care with heart.

Sources:

• American Diabetes Association
• CDC statistics report
• Web MD

TrueCare provides a wide-range of health services for children, adults, and the elderly. Our providers are committed to quality comprehensive care with heart. Contact TrueCare today to set up your appointment to improve your lifelong health journey. DISCLAIMER: THIS WEBSITE DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE The information, including but not limited to text, graphics, images, and other material contained on this website, are for informational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you read on this website.

DISCLAIMER: THIS WEBSITE DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE
The information, including but not limited to text, graphics, images, and other material contained on this website, are for informational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you read on this website.

The post Diabetes Awareness: What You Need To Know appeared first on TrueCare.

If you have Prediabetes, some of the negative effects may already be starting without you even knowing it. In fact, for every 10 people with Prediabetes, 9 of them do not know they fall into this category. It is important to understand where your own blood sugar falls so that you can take the necessary steps to lower it and move towards better health.

Why is Prediabetes Important?

If left unchecked, Prediabetes is likely to turn into Type 2 Diabetes. When this happens, your body has trouble metabolizing sugar and will either resist insulin, which regulates the movement of sugar into your cells, or doesn’t produce enough insulin to properly fuel your body. The condition often requires extensive maintenance, such as checking blood sugar multiple times per day and potentially self-injecting insulin.

Diabetes also can cause a number of other health issues throughout life. Heart disease, kidney disease, and strokes are all commonly associated with Diabetes. There is also a high risk for nerve damage that can lead to loss of limbs, commonly feet or legs. Blindness is also a potential risk for those with Diabetes.

Prediabetes is important to diagnose because it gives you a chance to reverse course before Type 2 Diabetes sets in. About 15-30% of people with Prediabetes will go on to develop Type 2 Diabetes. Once the disease sets in, it is rarely able to be cured or reversed, so the ability to acknowledge Prediabetes and take the necessary actions is crucial.

How Do You Know if You Have Prediabetes?

At yearly physical exams, your doctor will likely do bloodwork that contains a screening for your blood sugar level and will report any abnormalities to you. This may be expressed as an A1C level, and the typical ranges are as follows:

• Normal: below 5.7%
• Prediabetes: 5.7% to 6.4%
• Diabetes: 6.4% and higher

There are also signs you can look for that may indicate you are experiencing high A1C. Increased thirst and hunger, frequent urination, fatigue, and blurred vision are all symptoms of Prediabetes. If these sound familiar to you, you can ask your doctor for a specific test to determine your A1C levels. They may request you fast before getting blood drawn to determine your blood sugar levels when you haven’t eaten overnight.

Other risk factors can increase your odds of developing both Prediabetes and Type 2 Diabetes. Being overweight is a primary risk factor for this, as well as waist size in inches- more fatty tissue lets your body become more resistant to insulin over time. A poor diet with lots of sugar, red meat, and processed food, and a lack of physical activity can also be risk factors on their own. Age, family history, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, Sleep Apnea, and tobacco use can all also be indicators that you are at a higher risk of developing the condition.

Ways to Prevent Prediabetes

The best way to prevent Prediabetes is to engage in healthy eating and more physical activity- just these two acts can lead to weight loss and cut your risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes in half.

Monitoring your blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol can help guide you towards improvements that will lower your risk of Prediabetes. Even if the condition runs in your family or you are predisposed, these simple actions can help prevent it from developing, or if it has developed, prevent it from developing into Type 2 Diabetes.

Can Prediabetes Be Cured?

With the right lifestyle changes and care, your blood sugar level can be brought down to normal levels, or at least remain constant so it does not raise to the level of Type 2 Diabetes.

The most important ways to reduce your blood sugar level have to do with lifestyle choices. Eating healthy food- low in fat and calories, high in fiber, with a focus on whole grains- is one of the most important steps you can take, along with increasing exercise. Losing excess weight- even 5-7% of your body weight- can reduce risk as well. Stopping tobacco use will also be important.

If your risk is high and these factors have not worked, your doctor may prescribe medication to control sugar, high blood pressure, or cholesterol.

For more information and to take our Prediabetes Risk Assessment, you can visit and explore a CDC-Recognized prevention program.

The post What is Prediabetes? appeared first on TrueCare.