Diabetes is a chronic illness defined as a disease in which the blood contains high levels of glucose (sugar). Diabetes is caused by a resistance to insulin, too little insulin, or a combination of the two. Insulin is a hormone produced within cells of the pancreas to break down glucose in the bloodstream and move it into fat, muscle, and liver cells. The glucose will then be used as a fuel source for your body.

Although there are millions of Americans diagnosed with diabetes, African Americans are affected at a greater rate than other ethnicities. This community is twice as likely to be diagnosed and suffer major complications. Statistically, about 25% of all African Americans between the ages of 64 and 74 have diabetes and one in four black women between the ages of 55 and 65 have this disease.

The classifications of diabetes are Type I, Type II, and gestational. Type I diabetes is generally diagnosed during childhood and is less common than Type II. In this case, the body produces little to no insulin, and it is believed that genetics, viruses, and autoimmune problems may play a part in the development of the disease. In Type II diabetes the pancreas does not produce enough insulin to keep glucose levels stable and often the body does not respond well to insulin. This type is typically diagnosed during adulthood. Gestational diabetes may develop during pregnancy in women who weren't diabetic before. This form of diabetes usually disappears within six months after giving birth.

• Blurry vision

• Hunger

• Excessive thirst

• Fatigue

• Weight loss

• Frequent urination

Increased diabetic risk factors include:

• Family history

• Obesity

• 45 and older

• High blood pressure

• Abnormal cholesterol levels

Diabetes can damage and destroy blood vessels and nerves, decreasing the body’s ability to fight off infection. It may also lead to death of skin and tissue cells which may not be visible until infection occurs.