Ten Facts about Type 2 Diabetes:

1. Type 2 Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects the way your body metabolizes sugar (glucose).
2. Most people with type 2 diabetes are insulin resistant, meaning that their bodies don’t use insulin properly. Their bodies make more than enough of it, but their cells are resistant to it and do not know how to use it properly.
3. About 95% of those with diabetes have Type 2 Diabetes.
4. Type 2 Diabetes can be managed by eating well, exercising and maintaining a healthy weight.
5. Diabetes medication or insulin therapy can also be used to manage your blood sugar.
6. Signs and symptoms often develop slowly, therefore it is possible to have the illness without even knowing it. Up to one-third of those with diabetes aren’t even aware that they have the disease.
7. Type 2 Diabetes does not have significant signs and symptoms.
8. Smoking increases your risk of complications.
9. You are more susceptible to gum disease when you have Type 2 Diabetes, therefore oral health care is important.
10. “People with diabetes are twice as likely to develop heart disease than someone without diabetes.”

Studies published in Diabetes Care and Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice show that initial health improvements by people that are diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes often begin to diminish within six months if the person does not have ongoing self-management support. A support network makes diabetes easier to cope with, especially when you have access to a network of people who know first hand what it takes to manage the condition. Family and friends are often the first go-to of support but you might find it more helpful to talk with individuals personally dealing with the same disease. Finding the right support group that will be the most beneficial to you is important. Do you want an in person group or a group online? Some like the anonymity of an online group where you feel you can ask questions without being embarrassed or identified. Others like the personal interaction with fellow sufferers and to be able to hear firsthand how they are coping. Whichever you choose it is important that you find a support group.

Peer Health can connect you with a personalized peer community to share provider recommendations, treatment options, and define your best life. The Peer Health community is coming soon and we want you to be the first to know. Sign up for our newsletter today.

Photo by Daryn Stumbaugh on Unsplash