Diabetes

Diabetes is a long-term health condition that affects how the body uses blood sugar, also called glucose. Glucose is an important source of energy for the body, and insulin is a hormone that helps move glucose from the blood into the body’s cells.

When a person has diabetes, the body cannot properly manage blood sugar levels. This may happen because the pancreas does not make enough insulin, the body does not use insulin effectively, or the body does not make insulin at all. As a result, glucose can build up in the blood, leading to health problems, such as diabetes, over time.

National Impact of Diabetes

According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)’s National Data Statistics Report:

  • More than 40 million Americans (12%) are living with diabetes
  • Over 115 million adults are living with prediabetes

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) estimates:

  • In 2022, the total economic cost of diagnosed diabetes in the U.S. reached $412.9 billion
    • $306.6 billion in direct medical costs
    • $106.3 billion in lost productivity
  • Persons with diabetes have medical costs more than 2.6 times higher than those without diabetes

Diabetes in Georgia

Diabetes places a significant burden on individuals, families, and communities across Georgia. According to the ADA:

  • Approximately 1.1 million adults (11.4% of the adult population) in Georgia are living with diagnosed diabetes
  • About 63,000 adults are believed to have diabetes but remain undiagnosed
  • Diagnosed diabetes costs Georgia an estimated $13.3 billion each year
    • $9.9 billion in direct medical expenses
    • $3.4 billion in lost productivity 

Types of Diabetes

There are three 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. Common symptoms of diabetes include: 

  • 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) 

Some people may have mild or no symptoms that can go unnoticed. Early detection and effective treatment of diabetes can significantly reduce the risk of complications. Taking proactive steps can ensure better health outcomes and improve quality of life. 

Managing Blood Sugar Levels

Consistent monitoring and managing blood glucose levels is critical. Uncontrolled blood glucose levels can lead to complications including: 

  • Vision loss or blindness
  • Kidney disease
  • Slow-healing wounds
  • Amputation
  • Premature death

Are You at Risk for Type 2 Diabetes?

You can take steps to protect your health.

Take the Prediabetes Risk Test  to complete a risk assessment to know your risk.

Additional Resources

Patient Advocate Foundation - Co-Pay Relief

You’ve Got Prediabetes. What now? - YouTube

 

Last reviewed 1/27/2026