Not That Sweet: Diabetes Awareness = Diabetes Disruption

The Risk is Real

Did you know that Diabetes is the world’s fastest-growing chronic disease? It’s a serious health condition that impacts communities of color in far higher numbers and contributes to poor health outcomes and risk of death. The good news is,  in many cases, diabetes can be prevented and sometimes even reversed. 

Diabetes Statistics in Atlanta

In Atlanta, the prevalence of diabetes is notably high. In the Atlanta Metro area, about one in eight adults has diabetes, and 1 in 3 are prediabetic. Nearly 1 in 5 adults with diabetes are undiagnosed, and almost 80% of prediabetic individuals are unaware of their condition.  African American adults in Georgia are at higher risk for complications associated with diabetes, including cardiovascular diseases and kidney problems.  

Nationally, African Americans face up to four times higher rates of diabetes-related amputations than non-Hispanic whites, and Latinos are about 50% more likely to have an amputation. That’s hardly a sweet outlook. 

Impact of Obesity on Diabetes Rates

These alarming statistics and the number of affected people are expected to increase in Georgia due to high obesity rates and poor eating habits, which greatly raise the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by causing insulin resistance and chronic inflammation inside the body. As excess body fat, especially around the belly, interferes with normal metabolic functions, people face higher blood sugar levels and a greater chance of diabetes-related complications. 

Affordable Diabetes Care Options

At HEAL, our care team provides affordable diabetes care that includes testing and a comprehensive treatment plan with lifestyle counseling and, if needed, medical treatment to manage, control, and sometimes reverse the disease.  

We are committed to addressing diabetes in our community using a multifaceted approach that includes education, access to affordable healthcare, and ongoing support. By raising awareness, promoting healthy lifestyles, and ensuring regular screenings, HEAL is working to reduce the impact of diabetes.  

Understanding Type 2 Diabetes Symptoms

Type 2 (or adult-onset) diabetes is a chronic condition that happens when the body doesn’t produce enough insulin or doesn’t use it properly. Symptoms can develop slowly, and many people don’t realize they have diabetes until it affects their health.  

Excess weight increases the risk of diabetes. Common symptoms include: 

• Increased thirst: When blood sugar levels are high, the kidneys work harder to remove excess sugar, which can lead to dehydration.  
• Frequent urination: Urinating more often than usual, particularly at night.  
• Unexplained weight loss: Losing weight without trying.  
• Fatigue: Feeling more tired than usual.  
• Blurred vision: High blood sugar levels can cause the lenses in your eyes to swell.  
• Slow healing: Cuts and wounds may take weeks or months to heal.  
• Dry skin: Your skin may feel dry and itchy.  
• Numbness or tingling in hands or feet: High blood sugar levels can damage nerves and blood vessels.  
• Dark rashes: Acanthosis nigricans, which are dark rashes around the neck or armpits, can be a sign of insulin resistance. 

If you’re experiencing any of the common diabetes symptoms listed, or if you’ve already been diagnosed but lack access to regular care for managing the disease, contact us to schedule a diabetes screening and consultation, or call 404-564-7749.