Diabetes mellitus is a disorder which causes blood levels of the glucose to become high because the body does not use or release insulin (a hormone produced by the pancreas) adequately. The oxidation or metabolism of these sugars from carbohydrates is the major source of energy for the human body. Diabetes mellitus (Type 2 diabetes) is the 7th leading cause of death in African Americans. National Surveys during the past 35 years show that the percentage of African Americans with this disease has increased greatly. There are several causes that increase the risk for this disease. There are preventive ways to keep a person from getting this deadly disease. In the event that one does contract the disease there are ways to control it.
The first risk factor is genetics, which includes inherited traits and group ancestry. Studies show that diabetes does run in families. If a mother or father has this disease, it is more likely that their descendants will have it too. Researchers are conducting studies to figure out which gene
Gestational diabetes occurs more frequently in pregnant women. Their blood sugar levels become higher during the pregnancy, however, these levels go down after the pregnancy. Women who have gestational diabetes might get type II diabetes within 15 to 20 years after the delivery.
African Americans who already have this disease should still take measures so that the disease doesn’t cause other type of sicknesses. Most people or are diagnosed with type II diabetes have to take insulin or pills. These medications should be taken as ordered by the physician. Blood sugar levels should be known and maintained also. Maintaining a diabetic diet and exercising regularly also controls diabetes.
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