Forms of Diabetes include:

Virginia is in the Diabetes Belt

In the U.S., 644 counties in 15 states have the highest incidence of Type 2 Diabetes. Our area has been specifically identified as having a high incidence of diabetes. Right here is where diabetes care and prevention is most needed. Obesity and a sedentary lifestyle are two of the four major contributing factors to the increased incidence of diabetes.

More than 37 million people in the United States have diabetes (CDC.gov), and 733,302 Virginians are affected by diabetes (VDH.Virginia.gov). 

Overview of Diabetes in Virginia from the 2020 BRFSS

• United States prevalence: 11.3%
• Virginia prevalence: 11.1%
• White/Non-Hispanic prevalence: 10.2%
• Black/Non-Hispanic prevalence: 17.6%

Overview of Prediabetes from the 2020 BRFSS

• United States prevalence: 38.0%
• Virginia prevalence: 9.3%

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a group of diseases characterized by high levels of blood glucose resulting from defects in insulin production, insulin action, or both. Diabetes can be associated with serious complications and premature death, but people with diabetes can take steps to control the disease and lower the risk of complications.

For most people, there are lifestyle choices that can be controlled through education and well-thought-out exercise and diet plans. In addition to lifestyle changes, learning more about the various kinds of diabetes can help you determine the best course of action. 

Type 1 Diabetes

Previously called insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) or juvenile onset diabetes, Type 1 diabetes develops when the body's immune system destroys pancreatic beta cells, the only cells in the body that make the hormone insulin that regulates blood glucose. This form of diabetes usually strikes children and young adults, although disease onset can occur at any age.

Type 2 Diabetes

Previously called non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) or adult onset diabetes, Type 2 diabetes may account for about 90-95 percent of all diagnosed cases of diabetes. It usually begins as insulin resistance, a disorder in which the cells do not use insulin properly. As the need for insulin rises, the pancreas gradually loses its ability to produce insulin. Type 2 diabetes is associated with older age, obesity, family history of diabetes, history of gestational diabetes, impaired glucose metabolism, physical inactivity, and race/ethnicity.

Are you at risk for Type 2 diabetes? One out of three American adults has prediabetes. 

Chesapeake Regional Lifestyle Center is committed to improving the quality of life for individuals at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. The Diabetes Prevention Program (NDPP) provides resources and support to help you lose weight, become more physically active and reduce stress. The positive behavior changes when put into action can lead to success. This program is offered at no cost.

National Diabetes Prevention Program

To find out your risk for Type 2 diabetes, check each item that applies to you. The more items you check, the higher your risk for diabetes. 

• I am age 45 or older
• I am overweight
• I have a parent or sibling with diabetes
• My family background is non-white
• I have had gestational diabetes
• I gave birth to at least one baby weighing more than 9 pounds
• My blood pressure is 140/90 or higher, or I have been told that I have high blood pressure
• My cholesterol levels are higher than normal
• I am inactive
• I have polycystic ovary syndrome, also called PCOS
• On previous testing, I had prediabetes (an A1C level of 5.7-6.4%)
• I have a history of cardiovascular disease

If you have been diagnosed with prediabetes or are at risk for developing diabetes, you can make changes now to improve your health and prevent Type 2 diabetes. 

With the Diabetes Prevention Program (NDPP), you get:

• A proven program to prevent or delay Type 2 diabetes
• A CDC-approved curriculum and trained lifestyle coach
• Support from others like you as you learn new skills

The program is one-year long, with the first six months on core and the second six months on maintenance. 

Who's eligible for the Diabetes Prevention Program? To participate, patients must: 

• Be at least 18 years old
• Be overweight (BMI > 24; > 22 if Asian)
• Have no previous diagnosis of Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes
• Not be pregnant

In addition, you must meet ONE of the following criteria:

• Have been diagnosed with prediabetes within the past year
• Have had a recent blood test in the prediabetes range, which includes one of the following tests and results: Hemoglobin A1C: 5.7% - 6.4% OR Fasting plasma glucose: 110-125 mg/dL
• Have received a result of high risk for Type 2 diabetes on the prediabetes Risk Test
• A doctor previously diagnosed you with gestational diabetes

Gestational Diabetes

This is a form of glucose intolerance that is diagnosed in some women during pregnancy. Gestational diabetes occurs more frequently among African Americans, Hispanic/Latino Americans, and American Indians. It is also more common among obese women and women with a family history of diabetes. During pregnancy, gestational diabetes requires treatment to normalize maternal blood glucose levels to avoid complications in the infant.

To help you learn how to manage your diabetes, we offer individual counseling for adults and children with certified diabetes nurse educators and dietitians, group diabetes education classes called "Diabetes University" and carbohydrate counting classes. To enroll, your medical provider must fax a referral, or you may contact us yourself. Participation will require a written referral from your medical provider and this program is usually covered by insurance.