Type 2 diabetes is one of the fastest growing diseases in Canada with more than 60,000 new cases each year. The Canadian Diabetes Association says more than 1.8 million Canadians are currently diagnosed with diabetes and that the disease can shorten life expectancy by 5 to 15 years.
Beyond the obvious health issues, diabetes is costing Canadians. According to Canada’s Diabetic Cost Model, the economic burden of the disease was over $12B in 2010. This amount could increase to $17B by 2020 if left unchecked.
But it’s not all bad.
Research shows that lifestyle changes can help prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes. Healthy eating, weight control and physical activity are important prevention steps. In fact, in some cases, type 2 diabetes can be controlled by diet and exercise.
As with any medical condition, being well informed is an important first step. Stay tuned for our weekly posts on diabetes facts.
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