Health Uncle:Diabetes Alert

March 24 is Diabetes Alert Day.It's an occasion to warn people about the extent of this chronic illness,and encourage them to be screened for it.At present,around eight percent of Americans have diabetes.Of that number,more than 25% aren't aware of it.As well,some 57 million Americans are pre-diabetic.They have elevated blood glucose levels and,if they don't make lifestyle changes,are greatly at risk of developing the disease,and may even have sustained damage from their early stage of the condition.In one study,11% of pre-diabetics came down with diabetes every year.There is no cure for diabetes.Pre-diabetics have a fair chance of delaying or even preventing the full-blown illness by losing weight,eating less sugar and fat,and exercising.Weight,heredity and age are risk factors for diabetes.Diabetes screening is part of a complete physical.Consider making that appointment today.