What we know about diabetes in Kentucky?

What we know about diabetes in Kentucky?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as of 2020, an estimated 12.5% of adults in Kentucky have been diagnosed with diabetes. Here are some additional diabetes facts specific to Kentucky:

Prevalence: Kentucky has a higher prevalence of diabetes compared to the national average. The national average of diagnosed diabetes in adults is 10.2%, while Kentucky’s rate is 12.5%.

Risk factors: The risk factors for diabetes in Kentucky are similar to those across the United States. Some of the common risk factors include being overweight or obese, having a sedentary lifestyle, having a family history of diabetes, and being over the age of 45.

Complications: Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to a range of complications, including nerve damage, kidney damage, vision loss, and cardiovascular disease. In Kentucky, diabetes is the leading cause of kidney failure, lower limb amputations, and new cases of blindness.

Healthcare access: In Kentucky, access to healthcare can be a challenge for some individuals with diabetes, particularly those living in rural areas. The state has a high rate of uninsured individuals, which can make it difficult for people to afford necessary medications and supplies for managing their diabetes.

Prevention and management: Preventing and managing diabetes in Kentucky requires a multifaceted approach that includes education, lifestyle changes, and access to healthcare. Programs such as the Kentucky Diabetes Prevention and Control Program and the Kentucky Diabetes Network work to increase awareness of diabetes, provide resources for prevention and management, and support healthcare providers in providing quality care for individuals with diabetes.