Nearly 10 percent of the population of the United States has diabetes, and 1 in 4 with the disease isn’t aware they have it, according to new data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The report published on the CDC’s website suggests that over 29 million people in the United States are living with some form of diabetes.
“These new numbers are alarming and underscore the need for an increased focus on reducing the burden of diabetes in our country,” said Dr. Ann Albright, director of the CDC’s Division of Diabetes Translation.
The report also noted:
- 1.7 million people over the age of 20 were diagnosed with diabetes in 2012 alone. During that same year, 208,000 teens under the age of 20 were diagnosed with diabetes.
- Demographically, 15.9 percent of those diagnosed with diabetes over the age of 20 were American Indians/Alaska Natives, 13.2 percent were non-Hispanic blacks, 12.8 percent were Hispanics, 9 percent were Asian Americans, and 7.6 percent were non-Hispanic whites.
- More than 1 in 3 people over the age of 20 have prediabtetes.
- Diabetes and related complication costs totaled $245 billion in 2012.
Dr. Albright said better prevention techniques and education are necessary.
“Diabetes is costly in both human and economic terms,” said Dr. Albright. “It’s urgent that we take swift action to effectively treat and prevent this serious disease.”
Dr. Albright believes the findings should spur change from all levels in the healthcare industry. She concluded that if we don’t act quickly, the problem could spiral out of control.
“Now is the time to take action. If these numbers continue to rise, 1 in 5 people could have diabetes by the year 2025, and it could be 1 in 3 people by the year 2050. We simply can’t sustain this trajectory — the implications are far too great — for our families, our healthcare system, our workforce, our nation.”
Dr. Silverman comments
Dr. Albright’s comments are spot on. We need to do more to raise awareness about the complications associated with diabetes. These numbers and related blog posts on the subject aren’t meant to scare you; they are aimed at spreading the importance of a well balanced diet and regular exercise.
The report that 8.1 million people are living with diabetes without knowing it is shocking. Failing to test or take care of yourself isn’t going to make the disease go away. Be proactive in your prevention and treatment.
Related source: Medscape.com