Diabetes

Natives of all ages and both sexes have a high prevalence of obesity. Obesity is a key contributor to diabetes and it is a grave issue among Natives. Increases in obesity and diabetes is relatively recent in Natives: In the Last 1-2 generations, we can be attribute these changes to the fact that their is a high abundance of foods that are extremely high in fat now available that weren’t before and the transition from a very physical and active lifestyle to a relatively immobile, sedentary, low physical lifestyle.

 Program coordinator
Danielle Bellinger, RN 
Clinic Nurse, Quality Improvement

The Diabetes Team:
Danielle Bellinger
Ellen Williams 

Diabetes 

What is diabetes mellitus? 

• blood sugar is too high (too much sugar in the blood is not good for your health)

Pre-Diabetes – blood sugar is higher than normal, but not high enough to be diagnosed.

There are two types of diabetes mellitus:

• Type 1 Diabetes – About ~5% of those diagnosed with diabetes are diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. It’s diagnosed primarily in children and young adults, and it is due to the body not being able to produce insulin. 
• Type 2 Diabetes – About 95% of those diagnosed with diabetes are diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes; the cells in the muscles, liver, and fat do not use insulin properly; eventually, the body can’t make enough insulin which leads to high blood pressure. 

Diabetes and Obesity in the Community

Natives of all ages and both sexes have a high prevalence of obesity. Obesity is a key contributor to diabetes and it is a grave issue among Natives.  Increases in obesity and diabetes is relatively recent in Natives: In the Last 1-2 generations, we can attribute these changes to the fact that there is a high abundance of foods that are extremely high in fat now available that weren’t before and the transition from a very physical and active lifestyle to a relatively immobile, sedentary, low physical lifestyle. 

Symptoms

Common symptoms of diabetes:

• Urinating often
• Feeling  very thirsty or hungry even though you are eating regularly
• Extreme fatiuge
• Blurry vision
• Cuts / Bruises that are slow to heal
• Weight loss – even though you are eating more (Type 1)
• Tingling, pain, or numbness in the hands / feet (Type 2)
• Not living a healthy lifestyle
• Overweightness 
• No physical activity

Risk Factors

• Family members / Immediate family members with a history of diabetes or high blood pressure.
• Smoking

Diabetic Screening and Care

We provide diabetes screenings here at AIHSC as well as out-patient diabetes care and treatment. Adjustments in care and treatment are done in collaboration with clinician and patient.