Diabetes may be in your future, if you’re not proactive. A Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) study published in Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology in August showed that about 40% of Americans will develop type 2 diabetes, a metabolic disease characterized by high blood sugar levels. Longer lifespans and the growing obesity epidemic are lead contributors to the skyrocketing figures for diabetes, say the researchers. Other factors include super-sized portions, beverages laden with sugar or high-fructose corn syrup, fewer whole grains in the diet and lack of physical activity.
During an 11-year period ending in 2011, the risk for developing diabetes in women rose to 39.6%; for men it increased to 40.2%. The risks are even higher for African Americans and Hispanics.
Other countries experiencing similar diabetes projections include Canada, Finland and the UK. The researchers encourage prevention strategies, including a healthier lifestyle, such as eating foods that don’t cause dramatic spikes in blood sugar.
Source: cdc.gov