I was heading towards diabetes when I was at 337 lbs. Some estimates suggest that huge numbers of Americans will be diabetic in the future, as we get more obese and older; maybe even decreasing life expectancy in the US!
Today, in the Lancet (a British medical journal):
The worldwide incidence, prevalence, and economic effect of type 2 diabetes are substantial. Since the disease is usually asymptomatic in its earliest stages, many cases remain undiagnosed for long periods. Upon diagnosis, many individuals already have diabetes-related complications.In the US population, screening for type 2 diabetes is cost effective when started between the ages of 30 years and 45 years, with screening repeated every 3–5 years.
So, if you’re in that age group, make sure your doctor checks you for diabetes every few years.
Treatment started early can slow down the devastating complications of diabetes.
(Note that the study was funded by pharmaceutical companies, which stand to gain if more people need treatment).
My likelihood of getting diabetes (from measuring A1c) has fallen significantly with the weight loss (now 212 lbs).
My hemoglobin A1c levels over time
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