 |
|
|
 |
Diabetes: A Growing Public Health Concern
Diabetes: either you have it or you don't. That's the message that the American Diabetes Association
(ADA) is driving home to millions of people who believe they may be "borderline diabetic," or that their "sugar is just a bit high."
Convenient phrases and stereotypes such as these don't adequately describe one of the nation's leading causes of death and
disability. In fact, they tend to only minimize problems associated with the disease. The bottom line? An accurate diagnosis is
essential, because while a person can live a long and healthy life with diabetes, ignoring it or not taking it seriously can be deadly.
more
|
|
Insulin Preparations
Since 1982, most of the newly approved insulin preparations have been produced by inserting portions
of DNA ("recombinant DNA") into special lab-cultivated bacteria or yeast. This process allows the bacteria or yeast cells to
produce complete human insulin. Recombinant human insulin has, for the most part, replaced animal-derived insulin, such as
pork and beef insulin. More recently, insulin products called "insulin analogs" have been produced so that the structure differs
slightly from human insulin (by one or two amino acids) to change onset and peak of action. A table in today's issue of Vidyya
lists some of the more common insulin preparations available today. Onset, peak, and duration of action are approximate for
each insulin product, as there may be variability depending on each individual, the injection site, and the individual's exercise
program. more
|
|
|
|
Diet, Exercise Delay Type 2 Diabetes
At least 10 million Americans at high risk for Type 2 diabetes can sharply lower their chances of
getting the disease with diet and exercise. "In view of the rapidly rising rates of obesity and diabetes in America, this is good
news," said Health and Human Services Secretary Tommy G. Thompson, "so many of our health problems can be avoided
through diet, exercise and making sure we take care of ourselves." more
|
|
Oral Antidiabetes Medications
Pills to treat diabetes--antidiabetic agents--are used only in type 2 treatment. Four general classes of
drugs work in different ways to lower blood sugar. There are some risks associated with the use of these drugs. For example,
sulfonylureas, which stimulate the beta cells in the pancreas to release more insulin, can be associated with severe low blood
sugar levels, particularly when the person has other medical problems or is taking other medications. And in order for them to
work, a person's pancreas must be making at least some insulin. That is why oral medications will not work for the treatment of
type 1 diabetes. Keep this table on hand for a ready reference. It lists the available oral antidiabetic agent medications that are
on the US market today. more
|
|
Information For Patients: Seldom Discussed Complication Of Diabetes: Gastroparesis
Gastroparesis is a disorder in which the stomach takes too long to empty its contents. Gastroparesis is
most often a complication of type 1 diabetes. At least 20 percent of people with type 1 diabetes develop gastroparesis. It also
occurs in people with type 2 diabetes, although less often. more
|
|
|
