Americans however, are not making lifestyle changes to prevent that number from rising. Despite all of the information and easy changes Americans can make, they are suffering from "not me" syndrome.
A new survey by the Health Dialog and commissioned by the parent company Bupa, 82% of Americans are aware that being overweight is a risk factor for Type 2 diabetes, yet they do not apply this logic to themselves. More than 58% of Americans have a body mass index of 25 or over, which classifies them as overweight and obese. Overall, 29% of American respondents were obese, with a body mass index of 30 or more. Which is more frightening is that 51% of respondents considered themselves to be healthy and 43% thought their diets were good.
Oddly enough, 74% of Americans surveyed said obesity, unhealthy diets, and low levels of physical activity are the nation's biggest health issues. Eight out of ten Americans know that being overweight is a risk factor for the development of diabetes.
"There is a startling disconnect between what people know about the risk factors associated with diabetes and what they are actually doing to protect themselves from a health and wellness standpoint," said Peter Goldbach, MD, Chief Medical Officer, Health Dialog. "Given their knowledge, people now need to realize that even small steps can make a big difference when it comes to eating better, exercising more regularly, or shedding a few pounds. At Health Dialog we understand the importance of wellness programs that fit easily into people's lives and are more like fun than a chore. It's not about checking a box. It's about integrating new behaviors little by little into everyday life."
So what will it take for Americans and the government to do something about this epidemic? Millions of Americans to die from diabetes every year? Here are a couple of suggestions:
*Teach healthy nutrition to every school child and make sure every school has physical education classes every day. Throw out all processed foods, fast food, junk food, sodas, and vending machines from all schools.
*Create a national task force that will re-educate the entire population on nutrition and exercise.
*Stop the promotion of junk foods to children (Disney has already accepted this challenge).
If you are a diabetic and do not currently see a podiatrist, call our Bristol office to make an appointment.
Richard E. Ehle, DPM
Connecticut Foot Care Centers
Diabetic Foot Care in CT
Podiatrist in Bristol, CT
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