Welcome to ADASCOM.org. Did you know that Diabetes Mellitus has been observed since ancient times? The Ebers Papyrus of Egypt and ancient Indian texts describe this condition. Centuries ago Indian doctors concluded that there were two types of people who suffered from this condition. These types of people had different characteristics that are now associated with Type 1 or Type 2 Diabetes. Although different types of diabetes are now known, the most common ones are Type 1, Type 2 and Gestational (Pregnancy related).
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease that leads to a lack of insulin. In Type 2 diabetes, which is more common, the body cannot respond effectively to insulin. Insulin is a hormone that is produced in the pancreas and it is necessary for the uptake of glucose into cells of the body. Diabetes is characterized by high levels of sugar in the blood. Symptoms of diabetes include increased thirst and hunger, blurred vision, frequent urination, fatigue, dry and rough skin, and unexplained weight loss. There are many other associated conditions and biomarkers.
Type 2 diabetes is becoming more prevalent and is being discovered at a much younger age than before. More than 30 million Americans have been diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes, and more than 85 million Americans age 18 and older have pre-diabetes. Some estimate that 5,000 youth develop Type 2 diabetes each year. Sadly, this disease can shorten a person’s life, reduce the quality of life, and is associated with and is a risk factor for many other serious medical conditions, including hypertension, cardiovascular disease, liver and kidney disease, and poor wound healing. The total cost of diagnosed diabetes treatment in the USA rose to $327 billion dollars in 2017, according to the American Diabetes Association. 825 billion worldwide in 2016.
On an optimistic note, early onset Type 2 Diabetes is often preventable, through healthy eating and adequate exercise. It is also important to get proper dental care and adequate sleep, abstain from smoking, e-cigarettes, and recreational drugs, and engage in a feel-good activity each day. ADASCOM seeks to prevent or reduce the risk of early onset Type 2 diabetes and related conditions. The time to avert this Silent Catalyst of Maladies is now. Because life is meant to be lived to the fullest.
