Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has declared November as Diabetes Awareness Month in Michigan.

Whitmer's proclamation, which dedicates this month to Michiganders with diabetes, prediabetes and people taking care of loved ones managing these conditions, seeks to highlight the importance of preventing and managing diabetes, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The COVID-19 pandemic, and how the virus has severely impacted those with underlying medical conditions, means it is even more important for people to be able to manage their diabetes well, said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, the state's chief medical executive and chief deputy for health.

According to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), diabetes is the seventh leading cause of death in the U.S. and Michigan.In 2018,2,824 Michigandersdied due to complications from diabetes.There are approximately 870,000 Michigan adults that have been diagnosed with diabetes. More than 2.7 million adults across the state are estimated to have prediabetes.

People living with diabetes should work with their physician to manage their condition, which includes a healthy diet, exercise, and taking any medications as directed. We encourage people across Michigan living with diabetes to create a diabetes preparedness plan, including having extra medication and supplies on hand," said Khaldun.

According to MDHHS people of color, people living in poverty and people with a disability are at higher risk for type 2 diabetes, largely due to less access to health care and other programs and services. Specifically, non-Hispanic Black adults have 1.4 times the prevalence of diabetes when compared with non-Hispanic White adults Adults with a disability have two times the prevalence of diabetes when compared to those without a disability.

In addition to being at increased risk for illnesses such as COVID-19 and the flu, uncontrolled diabetes also puts people at risk for serious complications like cardiovascular disease, blindness, kidney disease and dialysis and nerve damage and amputation.

Read more:
November proclaimed Diabetes Awareness Month in Michigan - The Oakland Press