DIABETES - A LINK TO DIALYSIS

Did You Know
Diabetes is arguably the number one cause of end stage renal disease on earth. According to the American Diabetes Association, nearly 18 million people in the United States have been diagnosed with Type II diabetes. Nearly 6 million more are unaware that they even have the disease.

What's the Problem?
The problem with diabetes is that when uncontrolled it can kill you. Period.

Diabetes can lead to: A) brain dysfunctions and stroke, B) heart dysfunction and cardiac arrest, C) chronic kidney diseases (CKD), D) blindness, E) amputations and more - all leading to morbid catastrophes.

Doctors are Helping
Medical researchers have measurably improved the quality of care for diabetic patients. Clincal trials indicate earlier referral of diabetic-CKD (Chronic Kidney Disease) patients to Nephrologists effect a better retardation of disease progression. Additionally, Primary Care Physicians now routinely measure the glomerular filter rate (GFR) in their treatment regimens.

The National Kidney Foundation and National Institutes of Health are helping too. They regularly present Grand Rounds and Seminars, encouraging Primary Care Physicians to test patient renal function, and refer to Nephrology in very early CKD stages.

How Patients Can Help Themselves More
Compliance is key. Compliance requires discipline and diligence. When the temptation to eat that cake arrives, decide whether you love sweets more than you love life. You decide.

So what we now need is for diabetes patients to: A) Manage weight; watch diet and exercise daily. Do fun exercises like bowling, dancing and tennis. Walk for fun. B) Manage the disease conscientiously by following closely thdoctor's treatment plan, C) Seek a referral for a nephrology or endocrinology check up for supportive management, D) Get educated. Learn the effects of non-compliant behaviors.

The Center of Disease Control offers a comprehensive set of data about diabetes and many statististics.