A silent killer, diabetes is one of the most prevalent health issues affecting the communities of Hawaii. Approximately 120,971 people in the state have been diagnosed with diabetes, and an additional 39,000 people have diabetes but don’t even know it. As we recognize Diabetes Awareness Month this November, here’s how HMSA is helping our local population decode diabetes and educate themselves on this health issue.
Reaching out
Lisa Morita is a certified diabetes educator and a part of HMSA’s Condition Care Program outreach team. Working with HMSA members who qualify for care, Morita reaches out by phone to help with diabetes education and diet tips.
“At HMSA, I believe our clinicians can have a big impact on helping our members stay healthy and live healthy and fruitful lives even with diabetes,” says Morita. “Diabetes is a complicated health condition. Working with our members, we try to help simplify the issue and get them to understand how they can take easy steps to manage their health — it’s our job.”
Morita answering questions at a diabetes workshop.
Understand your risk
Being aware of your risk for diabetes is a crucial first step. Those with a family history of diabetes, for example, are at risk for diabetes and should consult their doctor. Individuals battling obesity are also considered at-risk for diabetes, and should consider reaching out to a dietitian or health specialist to get their weight in check.
Those who are prediabetic are most at-risk for diabetes, as the condition shows that individuals are experiencing higher-than-normal glucose levels and are well on their way to having type 2 diabetes. According to the Hawaii Department of Health, risk factors for prediabetes and diabetes include:
- You’re overweight.
- You’re 45 years old or older.
- You have a family history of type 2 diabetes.
- You’re physically active less than three times a week.
- You’ve given birth to a baby who weighed more than 9 pounds.
- You’ve been diagnosed with gestational diabetes when pregnant.
You can even take the Diabetes Risk Tesk to see if you have prediabetes. If you have questions or concerns, be sure to consult your doctor.
Knowledge is half the battle
While diabetes is a complex condition, simply understanding what it is and how to manage it with a healthy diet and exercise is vital to decoding diabetes. “One of the ways we support our members is through the HMSA well-being and support team,” says Jeff Tom, M.D., clinical systems director at HMSA. “We also offer diabetes workshops, particularly for those who have been newly diagnosed with diabetes or those who need extra support.”
Participants at Morita’s diabetes workshop.
Check out this video featuring HMSA member Neilson Chun as he shares about how he managed his diabetes with Morita’s help. Plus, hear from Dr. Tom about HMSA programs that help support health and well-being goals.
Learn more
For more information about diabetes, here are some useful articles:
controlling gestational diabetes
Diabetes diagnosed during pregnancy, or gestational diabetes, occurs when the body is unable to make enough insulin and can be dangerous if unmanaged. Get tips on how to manage this condition that affects approximately 9% of pregnancies in the U.S.
diabetes and gum disease
Did you know that people with diabetes are at higher risk for gum disease? Read how taking care of your teeth can help you manage your blood sugar.
hawaii’s fight against diabetes
November is National Diabetes Awareness Month. Diabetic and avid American Diabetes Association advocate and volunteer, Douglas Park, shares his purpose behind combating the disease in Hawaii.
imagine: life without diabetes
It’s a fact: Asian Americans are at a higher risk for diabetes. As part of National Diabetes Month, the American Diabetes Association of Hawaii shares their projects and initiatives.
managing diabetes with healthy habits
While some risk factors for type 2 diabetes can’t be changed such as age, ethnicity, or genetics, you can prevent or slow the progression with healthy lifestyle habits. Find out how small changes to your diet, activity level, and even sleep can make a big difference when managing diabetes.
understanding diabetes
HMSA Medical Director David Percy, D.O., explains the possible risk factors of diabetes that may affect you or a loved one. Learn more about the signs and symptoms of diabetes, when to see a doctor, and what foods to avoid to decrease your chances of getting type 2 diabetes.
