The American Diabetes Association reports many people are unaware they have diabetes until they develop one of its complications.
The association reports two out of three people with diabetes die from heart disease or stroke. The association describes diabetes as a silent disease that can harm eyes, nerves, kidneys and the heart before people even realize they have it.
Warning signs for diabetes include being very thirsty, urinating often and losing weight without trying.
Those who are at risk may include women who have had a baby weighing 9 pounds or more, people with a family history of diabetes, people who are overweight and get little or no exercise, people age 45 and older.
The American Diabetes Association reports lowering the risk for diabetes includes losing weight, being active most days of the week and eating low fat meals with vegetables, fruit and whole grain foods.
Area Lions Clubs are actively involved in providing free blood glucose screenings for diabetes. Jim Bergstrom, Garrison Lions past president and coordinator for the diabetes outreach program, said one of the needs to provide the free screenings area festivals and county fairs is having a doctor, emergency medical technician or nurse willing to volunteer their time.
Bergstrom said any medical professionals willing to volunteer, even once a year, would be welcome and may contact him by e-mail at jimbarb1@frontiernet.net.
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