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FACT: 29.1 Million people have diabetes. That is about 1 out of 11 people

What is Diabetes?

It is a chronic lifelong disease, which occurs when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin, or when the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces. This causes an increase of blood glucose levels. If untreated, it can cause serious damage to different parts of the body. 

What causes Diabetes?

When healthy, the body’s pancreas produces a hormone called insulin, which keeps the blood sugar levels from rising too high. Insulin helps the body store and distribute glucose, or sugar, and turns it into fuel for energy. Food with more sugar and starches produces more glucose for the body to use, and the body needs more insulin to process it.

If the pancreas can’t make enough insulin, and the blood sugar levels stay high over time, diabetes can develop. Type 1, type 2, and prediabetes fall in the same category of diabetes but can have different causes and treatments. 


Finding treatment and support for your health can seem overwhelming, but 211 can help! Search the Healthy Living community resources guide and community calendar to find support near you.