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Data Sheet 053 |
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| Term | Diabetes | |
| Short Definition | Failure of the body to use carbohydrates and sugars properly due to disturbance of the normal insulin mechanism. Failure to maintain proper insulin level can lead to nerve damage and leave the patient vulnerable to soft-tissue injuries, especially in the foot and ankle. | |
| Long Definition |
Diabetes is a disease in which the body does not produce or properly use insulin. Insulin is a hormone that is needed to convert sugar, starches and other food into energy needed for daily life. The cause of diabetes continues to be a mystery, although both genetics and environmental factors such as obesity and lack of exercise appear to play roles. There are 18.2 million people in the United States, or 6.3% of the population, who have diabetes. While an estimated 13 million have been diagnosed with diabetes, unfortunately, 5.2 million people (or nearly one-third) are unaware that they have the disease. |
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| References |
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| Links | http://www.diabetes.org/home.jsp | |