Mellitus Case Studies

The American Diabetes Association is committed to educating the public about how to stop diabetes and support those living with the disease. It is estimated that 300,000 people in Western Pennsylvania have diabetes. This number does not include the number of individuals that are undiagnosed; it is estimated that an additional 100,000 or more people are currently undiagnosed of diabetes mellitus. It is important to control and manage diabetes mellitus to prevent other chronic disease. Diabetes mellitus can lead to debilitating complications if left untreated for an extensive amount of time. Chronic illnesses such as heart disease and diabetes mellitus are two of the leading causes death in Pennsylvania. Intermediate risk factors of heart disease and diabetes mellitus include high blood pressure, raised blood glucose, abnormal blood lipids, and overweight/obesity.
Some common modifiable risk factors include unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, tobacco use, alcohol use, and environmental hazards1,2. Some risk factors that can cause heart disease and diabetes mellitus cannot be changed; these risk factors include age, gender, race/ethnicity, and family history1,2. It is important to get regular laboratory testing to help prevent or delay the onset of chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes mellitus. Many people today live with undiagnosed chronic illnesses, with or without symptoms. Untreated illnesses can lead to greater more catastrophic complications. For example undiagnosed diabetes is associated with lack of awareness, treatment, and control of high LDL-C. Managing symptoms and treating early could help prevent or delay cardiovascular disease associated with high LDL-C