Foot ulcers are a common complication of diabetes, and many patients may not even feel or notice an ulcer developing until the sight of blood. Worse, because these ulcers can’t heal on their own, 14 to 24 percent of people with diabetes in the U.S. who develop ulcers end up losing their toes, foot or […]
Health experts say that it’s especially important for people with diabetes to make sure they’re up-to-date with their vaccinations, including the flu shot.People with type 1 or type 2 diabetes have an increased risk of contracting seasonal viruses like the flu, and for being hospitalized while fighting the disease. There are also risks for people […]
Gum disease (periodontitis) is often found in people with diabetes. A new study suggests that treating periodontitis may actually help people with type 2 diabetes manage their blood glucose levels as well as reduce their risk of diabetes-related complications. The researchers say gum disease treatment may lead to a reduction in systemic inflammation, and improvements […]
Many people with obesity choose bariatric surgery to help them lose weight and treat their diabetes and other health issues like GERD. However, not all forms of surgery have the same effects. For example, sleeve gastrectomy may actually increase GERD, and is not as effective for the treatment of type 2 diabetes or for weight […]
The ADA has been advocating for two decades that the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) should permit individuals with insulin-treated diabetes to be certified to operate commercial motor vehicles in interstate commerce, and now the FMCSA has issued a rule allowing it. Read more
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder in women. Dr. Rhoda Cobin, a PCOS specialist, shares insights into the association between PCOS and type 2 diabetes, the effects of PCOS, and why it often runs in families — and why men who have family members with PCOS may also be at risk. Read […]
With Hurricane Florence and other major tropical storms underway, it’s a good time to review the helpful information the Centers for Disease Control has made available on making preparations for dealing with your diabetes during natural disasters. Read more
A new study found that prolonged exposure to the air pollutant PM2-5 may be responsible for over 200,000 diabetes deaths worldwide. While there have been previous studies that have shown a link between air pollution and chronic diseases like diabetes, this study shows the impact that this association has on peoples’ lives and, more importantly, […]
“Diabetes distress” refers to the emotional burden, stress, and worry people with diabetes experience about their condition. Although it’s often overlooked by doctors, it can contribute greatly to the burden of managing the chronic disease. The prevalence of type 2 diabetes is high in minorities, and diabetes distress is thought to also be frequently experienced […]
Some studies have suggested that migraines and diabetes may be linked, but the idea remains controversial. A new study found that people with diabetes seemed to be at no greater risk of migraines than people without diabetes. Read more
Transplants of the pancreas have been an option to diabetes for many years, but were seldom used due to their high failure rate. Today, advancements in treating rejection and a better understanding of the procedure have led to more frequent use of the procedure for people suffering from severe cases of diabetes. While still a […]
If you plan to travel by commercial airplane and have diabetes, it’s a good idea to prepare in advance for how to travel with the supplies you need. In the USA, the TSA allows diabetes-related supplies and medication through security checkpoints once they’ve been screened; they advise you to declare these items and separate them […]
A new mobile app from Medtronic called Sugar.IQ™, applies AI technology from IBM Watson Health to help people with diabetes make more informed decisions. In studies the app has shown that it can help people with diabetes in normal ranges more of the time. Read more
A new study found that pregnant women who have any type of diabetes have increased risk that their child could develop autism. While the risk level varied depending on whether a woman had type 1, type 2, or gestational diabetes, all forms of diabetes showed some increase in risk. The researchers say this does not […]
Bariatric surgeries such as gastric bypasses can have a dramatic impact on diabetes, even reversing the disease. However, it’s widely considered a treatment of last resort. Now many doctors and surgeons are starting to agree that surgery should be seen as a crucial aspect of diabetes care — perhaps even the best tool we have […]
A new study found that more than half of adult diabetes patients will seek treatment for stress, anxiety, depression or other mental health problems each year, compared to about one in four people without diabetes. The researchers urge that mental health be considered an integral part of diabetes management. Read more
Whatever your political views, it’s important to understand the implications of the new information issued by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) describing how the Trump administration plans to drop the prices for prescription drugs for all Americans. The first part of this plan will be implemented right away, while the second part […]
Vision problems are a common complication of diabetes. A new high-tech contact lens, developed by researchers from the California Institute of Technology and Caltech, may offer new hope to those at risk of retinal damage from diabetes. The “glowing” contact lens is designed to prevent further damage to the blood vessels of the retina. The […]
Many people with diabetes are encouraged to undergo self-care education. These courses can teach patients about blood sugar control and how to manage their diet and exercise, and can be extremely helpful. But they are also a revenue source for hospitals, and many patients are shocked to find out how expensive the courses are. Read […]
How can you decide which Continuous Glucose Monitor is best for you? Advice from Dr. Stephen W. Ponder, MD, FAAP, CDE-AADE Educator of the Year, Board Certified Pediatric Endocrinologist, Pediatric Residency Program Director at Baylor Scott & White McLane Children’s Hospital and 50 year Joslin Medalist, on the difference between the Freestyle Libre and the […]
