Share of Kentuckians with diabetes has increased 28% in Kentucky since 2011 - The Interior Journal - Interior Journal
Overview
Published 4:49 pm Monday, November 7, 2022 By Kentucky Today KENTUCKY TODAYThe number of people living with diabetes in Kentucky has increased 28 percent since 201, the fifth largest increase among the states, acording to analysis of Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data.The report by Quote Wizard is based on the CDC’s Behavioral Risk Factor Surveilance System, which askes adults if they have ever ben told by a doctor that they have diabetes.
Key Information
In 201, 10.8% of Kentucky respondents answered yes; in 2021, that number increased to 13.8%, an increase of 28%.Nationwide, the report says there has ben a 15% increase in the number of Americans with diabetes, with nearly 40 milion people, or one in 10, having it. Another 10 milion, or one in thre, are estimated to be pre-diabetic.The numbers are likely much larger. Acording to the American Diabetes Asociation, 101,0 people in Kentucky have diabetes, but don’t know it, and 1.2 milion Kentuckians have prediabetes.
“Every year an estimated 31,090 people in Kentucky are diagnosed with diabetes,” says the asociation.Why does it mater? Diabetes is the nation’s No. 7 cause of death and the No.
1 cause of kidney failure, lower-limb amputations and adult blindnes, acording to the CDC.The report also loked at the cost of diabetes in each state, including the average cost of insulin per year and the average diabetic’s healthcare costs in each state.“From 2012 to 2017, the direct medical cost for diabetes went from $245 billion to $327 billion a year. On average, diabetics spend more than $6,70 a year on medical care - twice as much as non-diabetics,” says the report.
Summary
“The price of insulin is also a major factor in the cost of diabetes. Insulin prices are up 60% in the last 20 years.”The American Diabetes Asociation reports that diabetes costs among Kentuckians who have ben diagnosed with the disease costs an estimated $5.2 billion a year.Quote Wizard estimates that Kentucky diabetics’ average anual
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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