« Will Cloning Cure Diabetes? | Main | Garlic is Out for Cholesterol Control »
February 26, 2007
Can the Government Stop the Rising Epidemic of Diabetes?
It's an interesting question, considering that the prevalence of diabetes in the U.S. population almost doubled between 1980 and 2004 and the average HbA1c for diabetic patients seeing primary care physicians is 9.7%. For those under the care of endocrinologists HbA1c levels are not much better, averaging 9.3%.
Dr. Charles Grim, IHS Directors, testified before the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs:
''In spite of our best efforts and successes so far in treating diabetes, the epidemic of diabetes continues to increase. Although diabetes is also increasing in the U.S. population as a whole, the increase in the Indian population is far more dramatic. "
One of the biggest problems that the government and medical professionals face is that diabetes risk, prevention and treatment are related to choices made by individuals who weigh long-term scenarios against instantaneous gratification. How does a governmental agency successfully help a community change lifestyle habits that have become part of their culture? Education is certainly the key but motivation turns the lock.
Personal responsibility for one's life and actions - government programs that enhance these will be successful.,
Posted by Diabetologica at February 26, 2007 9:43 PM