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According to the American Diabetes Association, 23.6 million people suffer from diabetes in the United States. Diabetes is the seventh leading cause of death, with a total of 233,619 diabetic-related deaths in 2005 (most recent data available). In 2007, diabetes cost Americans 174 million dollars in medical and related expenses.
Kidney Disease
Diabetes is the number one cause of kidney failure, accounting for 44 percent of new diagnoses in 2005. Severe kidney damage can lead to dialysis or a kidney transplant.
Eye Damage or Blindness
According to the American Diabetes Association, blindness caused by diabetes in adults between the ages of 20 and 74 is the leader in disease-related cases of blindness. Glaucoma and cataracts are also effects of diabetes.
Nerve Damage
Especially in the legs, large amounts of sugar can damage the small blood vessels that feed the nerves. Uncontrolled blood sugar can lead to a complete loss of feeling in affected limbs.
High Blood Pressure
Approximately 75 percent of adults with diabetes are diagnosed with high blood pressure and are prescribed medications for hypertension.
Skin Conditions
Diabetic patients are more susceptible to fungal and bacterial infections of the skin. Also, mouth sores and gum disease can occur. Up to 33 percent of people are affected by skin disorders caused by diabetes.
Source:
MayoClinic.com: "Type 2 diabetes"
American Diabetes Association: "Diabetes Basics and Statistics"
American Diabetes Association: "Living With Diabetes; Skin Complications"
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