Tuesday, March 27th was designated National Diabetes Alert Day by the American Diabetes Association. This is the 19th year that the ADA has "sounded the alert" for diabetes awareness. Many people in this country don't know that they have type 2 diabetes. Many more do not realize that they have the risk factors for developing the disease.

Do you have the symptoms of type 2 diabetes?

• The Top Warning Signs of Diabetes
• What is Diabetes?

Do you have the risk factors for developing type 2 diabetes in the future?

• The Top 7 Risk Factors for Type 2 Diabetes
• Metabolic Syndrome and Risk Factors for Type 2 Diabetes

Don't let diabetes sneak up on you. Be aware of the symptoms and risks. Undiagnosed diabetes can lead to serious complications, such as debilitating nerve damage in legs and feet, kidney failure and blindness. If you have these symptoms or the risk factors for diabetes, make an appointment with your healthcare provider today.

Photo by Anissa Thompson