Diabetes Awareness: Understand Your Risk, Get Tested, and Achieve Better Health

Understanding Diabetes in the Black Community

When Grandma said it, it sounded harmless, “Grandma’s got a touch of sugar, baby. I’ll be alright.”  But diabetes is a serious health condition that impacts the Black community in far higher numbers and contributes to poor health outcomes and risk of death.

Diabetes Statistics in Atlanta

In Atlanta, the prevalence of diabetes is notably high, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reporting that 12.7% of Black adults in Georgia have been diagnosed with diabetes, compared to 7.4% of white adults (CDC, 2022).  This disparity is driven by various factors, including socioeconomic status, access to healthcare, and lifestyle choices.

Impact of Obesity on Diabetes Rates

These are alarming statistics, and the number is expected to rise due to obesity rates and unhealthy eating habits in our community (Georgia Department of Public Health, 2021).  Furthermore, Black adults in Atlanta face a higher risk of complications associated with diabetes, including cardiovascular diseases and kidney problems. Despite Grandma’s reassurance, that’s hardly a sweet outlook.

Affordable Diabetes Care Options

At HEALing Community Center, our healthcare professionals offer affordable diabetes care that includes testing, and a comprehensive treatment plan that includes lifestyle counseling and, if needed, medical treatment to manage, control, and in some cases, reverse the disease.

If you are experiencing any of the common diabetes symptoms listed below, or if you’ve already been diagnosed with diabetes but don’t have access to regular care to help you manage the disease, call our medical office today to schedule an appointment.

Community Support for Diabetes Management

We are committed to addressing diabetes in our community using a multifaceted approach that includes education, access to affordable healthcare, and ongoing support. By raising awareness, promoting healthy lifestyles, and ensuring regular screenings, HEALing Community Center is working to reduce the impact of diabetes.

To schedule a diabetes screening and consultation, make an appointment or call 404-564-7749.

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition that occurs when the body doesn’t produce enough insulin or doesn’t use it properly. Symptoms can develop slowly, and many people don’t know they have type 2 diabetes until it affects their health.

Understanding Type 2 Diabetes Symptoms

Excess weight increases the risk of diabetes. Common symptoms of type 2 diabetes include:

• Increased thirst: When blood sugar levels are high, the kidneys work harder to remove excess sugar, which can lead to dehydration.
• Frequent urination: Urinating more often than usual, particularly at night.
• Unexplained weight loss: Losing weight without trying.
• Fatigue: Feeling more tired than usual.
• Blurred vision: High blood sugar levels can cause the lenses in your eyes to swell.
• Slow healing: Cuts and wounds may take weeks or months to heal.
• Dry skin: Your skin may feel dry and itchy.
• Numbness or tingling in hands or feet: High blood sugar levels can damage nerves and blood vessels.
• Dark rashes: Acanthosis nigricans, which are dark rashes around the neck or armpits, can be a sign of insulin resistance.