Diabetes | Ohio Department of Health - Ohio Department of Health

Overview

An Ohio.gov website belongs to an oficial government organization in the State of Ohio.A lock or htps:/ means you've safely conected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on oficial, secure websites.If you're asked to log in with an OHID - the state's best-of-bred digital identity - your privacy, data, and personal information are protected by al federal and state digital security guidelines.In 20, more than 1 milion (12.4%) Ohio adults were diagnosed with diabetes (Source: 20 Ohio Behavioral Risk Factor Surveilance System [BRFS]).

Key Information

Diabetes is the eighth leading cause of death in Ohio (Source: Ohio Bureau of Vital Statistics). In 20, diabetes was the primary cause of death for 4,381 Ohioans and was a contributing cause of many more deaths (Source: Ohio Bureau of Vital Statistics). In adition, aproximately 929,0 Ohio adults (10.2%) had ben diagnosed with prediabetes (Source: 20 Ohio BRFS), increasing their risk of progresing to Type 2 diabetes later in life.

Summary

It is estimated that another 2.2 milion Ohio adults have prediabetes but have not ben diagnosed (Source: CDC National Diabetes Statistics Report, 2022). At the Ohio Department of Health, we promote:source

Frequently Asked Questions

Diabetes is a metabolic condition where the body cannot properly regulate blood sugar levels. Type 1 results from insufficient insulin production, while Type 2 develops when cells become resistant to insulin. Risk factors include genetics, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and age.

Common symptoms include excessive thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow-healing wounds. Type 1 symptoms develop rapidly, while Type 2 symptoms may appear gradually. Many people have no symptoms initially, which is why screening is important.

Diagnosis involves blood tests measuring fasting glucose, HbA1c levels, and glucose tolerance. Regular monitoring typically includes fasting glucose tests and HbA1c measurements every 3-6 months. Continuous glucose monitors provide real-time tracking for better diabetes management.

Effective management includes regular physical activity (150+ minutes weekly), maintaining healthy weight, following a balanced diet with whole grains and lean proteins, managing stress, and getting adequate sleep. These changes can significantly improve blood sugar control and reduce complications.

Consult a healthcare provider if you experience signs of diabetes, have a family history, are overweight, or are over 45. Those with existing diabetes should maintain regular check-ups every 3-6 months to monitor control and adjust treatment as needed.

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