March 27th is the American Diabetes Association Alert Day– a one-day, “wake-up call” to alert the public to take the Diabetes Risk Test to find out if they are at risk for developing type 2 diabetes.
Every 17 seconds someone is diagnosed with diabetes.
My brother was diagnosed with Type 1 when he was eleven years old. Type 1 is commonly diagnosed in children and young adults and is caused when the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas are destroyed by an autoimmune response.
I wrote a little bit about how my brother inspired me here.
Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes. It is known as non-insulin dependent diabetes, and is caused when either the body does not produce enough insulin or the cells ignore the insulin.
Millions of Americans have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, and many more are unaware they are at high risk.
The ADA’s Diabetes Risk Test asks users to answer simple questions about weight, age, family history and other potential risk factors for pre-diabetes or type 2 diabetes. Preventative tips are provided for everyone who takes the test, including encouraging those at high risk to talk with their health care provider.
Check out the test here. Take it. Share it.
Also, coming up this May is best selling author Brenda Novak’s yearly online auction for finding a cure for diabetes. Check out her site to see how you can make a difference. There are always amazing items up for bid–including an entire category for writers.
As always, I love to hear from you! Please feel free to share in the comments how you are making steps toward a healthier life.
Have a happy, healthy week.