Study: Health protection should be at forefront to avoid developing diabetes

COLUMBUS, Ohio Although the majority of Americans are concerned about developing diabetes, many aren't taking the necessary steps to protect their health, according to a recent study.

The International Diabetes Center and pharmaceutical company Abbott found that while 60% have expressed concern, only one-third of people surveyed have taken preventative measures, while 29% said they spoke with their doctor.

"Diabetes has reached epidemic proportions in the United States and it is important for people across the country to know their risks for developing the condition," said Maggie Powers, registered dietitian, certified diabetes educator and research scientist, International Diabetes Center. "Type 2 diabetes represents the vast majority of these cases, but the good news is it can be controlled – or even prevented – through a weight management plan that includes regular exercise and a balanced diet."

While most Americans polled were aware that obesity can cause a person to develop Type 2 diabetes, nearly one-third of people surveyed think balanced diet does not play a critical role in lowering the likelihood of developing Type 2 diabetes and 62% think that age plays little or no role in their likelihood for developing the condition. Even groups that are statistically shown to be at higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, specifically, Hispanic-Americans and African-Americans, were aware of the tie between ethnicity and Type 2 diabetes risk.

The surveys were conducted online by Wedbush Decision Metrics from March 12 to 16. Quotas were set to ensure reliable and accurate representation of the total U.S. population over age 18.