Diabetes and Individuals with Disabilities

1. People First of Nevada Diabetes and Individuals with Disabilities Developed with grant funds from the Nevada Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities Contributions By: Ronda Benedict, Public Health Intern May, 2012

2. 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

3. Chronic Health Conditions Among People with Disabilities

4. 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.

5. 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

6. 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.

7. 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

8. 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

9. 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!