Diabetes: Why Many Teens are at Risk
Age-adjusted Percentage of U.S. Adults Who Were Obese or Who Had Diagnosed Diabetes Obesity (BMI ≥30 kg/m 2 ) Diabetes No Data 26.0% No Data 9.0% CDC’s Division of Diabetes Translation. National Diabetes Surveillance System available at
Diabetes: A condition of insulin insufficiency (the body does not make enough insulin). Insulin is made in the Pancreas. Insulin turns Glucose (sugar) into energy. Insulin acts as the key releasing glucose into the body.
Types of Diabetes Pre-diabetes-slightly elevated blood sugar levels. Between Often found in teens. Type 1-Pancreas does not make enough insulin. Most often found in teens. Type 2-Body makes insulin but can’t convert sugar to energy as efficiently.
Warning Signs Fatigue-tired/weakness Frequent urination Overweight Family History Excessive Thirst Unexpected weight loss Tingling in hands, legs and feet
Blood Sugar Levels Normal
A person with diabetes must look at the amount of carbohydrates in foods.
Hypoglycemia-Low Blood Sugar Blood sugar levels drop dangerously below the normal range. Levels can drop as low as 30. Irritability and blurred vision are a common factor in low blood sugar levels.