More than 8% of women in the United States have diabetes, but about a third of them don’t know it! Diabetes complications are serious, so early detection is critical. Lancaster General offers comprehensive educational programs to help women learn and practice the skills needed to control diabetes. For more information, call (717) 544-5923.  

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a disease that affects your body’s ability to produce or respond to insulin, a hormone that allows blood glucose (sugar) to enter the cells of the body and be used for energy. In those with diabetes, glucose builds up in the blood, overflows into the urine, and passes out of the body. The body loses its main source of fuel, even though the blood contains large amounts of glucose.

Diabetes falls into two categories:

• Type 1, which usually occurs during childhood or adolescence
• Type 2 (most common), which usually occurs after age 30.

Because of the severity of diabetes complications, early diagnosis is extremely important. Signs and symptoms of diabetes include:

• Increased thirst
• Increased urination
• Extreme hunger or tiredness
• Losing weight without trying
• Blurred vision
• Slow healing of sores
• Dry, itchy skin
• Tingling in the feet

The Importance of Education

Learning the skills to control blood sugar levels is critical to maintaining your good health. That’s why Lancaster General Diabetes & Nutrition Center offers comprehensive diabetes education programs. Our team of healthcare professionals, including physicians from Diabetes and Endocrinology Specialists (a Lancaster General Medical Group practice), work with you to develop a diabetes management plan to address all your needs. With proper treatment and lifestyle changes, you can prevent or delay complications.