Not only is November National Diabetes Awareness Month, but there are several more related health issues which are observed this month. Over 20 million people have been diagnosed with diabetes, and over 50 million more are estimated to be pre-diabetic.
National Diabetic Eye Disease Month. Diabetes can damage small blood vessels in the eye over time. This can result in permanent vision loss. Diabetic retinopathy is the cause of most new cases of blindness in the United States today. Observing National Diabetic Eye Disease Month can remind us to see an eye doctor at least once a year.
Foot Health Issues Related to Diabetes Month Complications can occur in feet due to long-term damage to small blood vessels and nerves in the extremities. Regular foot screenings are a necessary part of good diabetes care and can help detect small changes before they turn serious.
The Great American Smokeout Smoking is especially dangerous when combined with diabetes. Smoking also damages blood vessels and organs such as the heart and kidneys, so when smoking is in the same picture as diabetes, the risks of complications soar. Quitting smoking can go a long way towards saving your body from unnecessary damage.
So, in addition to National Diabetes Awareness Month, November gives us even more good reasons to take care of ourselves. Good health can last a lifetime.
- November 9, 2006 at 10:56 am(1) Anonymous :
