Diabetes
Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how the body processes blood sugar (glucose). Insulin helps regulate the glucose level in the blood. With diabetes, the pancreas does not produce enough insulin, the body becomes resistant to the insulin that is produced, or it does not produce any insulin at all. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the typical blood glucose target (before a meal) is between 80 to 130 mg/dL.
Approximately 954,000 adults in Georgia, 11.4% of the state’s population, have been diagnosed with diabetes, and an estimated 234,000 more are living with the disease but remain undiagnosed. According to data from the University of Georgia, the prevalence of type 2 diabetes in Georgia increased by nearly 20% between 2012 and 2022, reflecting a growing public health concern. Between 2020 and 2024, diabetes was the cause for 122,794 hospitalizations and 176,502 ER visits in Georgia. In addition, about 2.7 million adults in Georgia (33.7%) have prediabetes, a condition that can be delayed or prevented from progressing to type 2 diabetes through sustained weight loss, increased physical activity, and healthier eating habits.
There are 3 main types of diabetes—
- Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease where the pancreas does not produce any insulin and the person with diabetes takes insulin injections to regulate blood glucose levels.
- In Type 2 diabetes the pancreas produces too little insulin, or the body becomes resistant to the insulin being produced. This type of diabetes can often be controlled with oral medication, diet and exercise.
- Gestational diabetes is when pregnant women have an increase in blood glucose levels due to the pancreas not producing enough insulin.
Prediabetes is a condition in which the body’s glucose levels are elevated but not to the point of a diabetes diagnosis.
Warning Signs and Symptoms
Knowing the warning signs and symptoms of diabetes and diabetes complications can help in early diagnosis and better health outcomes by treating the condition early. The following are common symptoms of diabetes:
- Urinating more than usual
- Feeling extremely thirsty
- Feeling very hungry
- Extremely tired
- Blurred vision
- Nausea
- Weight loss without trying (More common in type 1)
- Tingling or numbness in hands and feet (More common in type 2)
However, some people with diabetes have symptoms that are mild and can go unnoticed. Early detection and effective treatment of diabetes can significantly reduce the risk of complications. Taking proactive streps can ensure better health outcomes and improve quality of life.
Constant blood glucose monitoring is crucial for optimal control. Uncontrolled blood glucose levels could lead to complications such as blindness, kidney disease, slow-healing wounds, and even death.
Are you at risk for Type 2 diabetes? Take the Prediabetes Risk Test to complete a risk assessment to know your risk.
Additional Resources
2020
Georgia Diabetes Report and Action Plan
Patient
Advocate Foundation Co-Pay Relief - Patients
Patient
Advocate Foundation Co-Pay Relief - Providers and Pharmacies
You’ve Got Prediabetes. What now? - YouTube
Last reviewed 12/10/2025