Diabetes has become a pandemic in the 21st Century and is now the 7th leading cause of death worldwide. The International Diabetes Federation reported that in 2006, 246 million people million worldwide had the condition and that number is expected to rise dramatically over the next 20 years.

The US Center for Disease Control (CDC) reports that one out of every ten Americans has the condition and that in forty years, one third of Americans will have the disease. The shocking news is that many Americans are presently pre-diabetic and are clueless to the fact. The factors responsible for this rising endemic are primarily obesity and the leading of unhealthy lifestyles.

Diabetes is a deadly disease that is responsible for a wide array of health complications. For starters, diabetic nerve damage causes foot problems as one is rendered unable to feel any pain when injured. Foot infections result as well as changing of shape of the toes and feet.

Eye problems such as retinopathy and glaucoma are also caused by diabetes as well as skin problems, high blood pressure, stroke and oral health problems.

Diabetes has type 1 and type 2 which differ on the intensity of symptoms. Type 1 sufferers experience unusual thirst and extreme weight loss, extreme hunger, fatigue, irritability and frequent urination.

Type 2 sufferers on the other hand, incorporate type 1 symptoms and blurred vision, recurring gum, bladder and skin infections as well as having cuts and bruises that take too long to heal.

If one experiences any of these symptoms, they should get in contact with a doctor. If overweight, one should immediately take steps to cut the excess weight. These may include paying attention to what you eat and eating like a diabetic; that is cutting out all sugars and eating healthy and nutritious food. It is also important to get active and exercise regularly.

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