Diabetes & Native American People

Did you know?

• Diabetes is 4 to 8 times more common in Native Americans comopared to the U.S. population.
• It is the 4th leading cause of death among Native Americans.
• In some tribes, 1 out of every 2 adults has Type 2 diabetes.
• People with Type 2 diabetes have an increased risk of getting heart disease, which is the leading cause of death for Native Americans.
• Elevated blood sugar levels for a long period of time increase complication risks such as blindness, amputations, and kidney failure.
• There is no cure for diabetes, but it can be prevented!

Steps for Type 2 Diabetes Prevention

• Breast-feed your baby for at least four to six months.
• Exercise three to five days per week for at least 30 minutes.
• Eat five servings of fruits and vegetables a day.
• Choose lean meats, in healthful portions, each day.
• Limit high sugar foods, like pop, candy, and cookies.
• Choose low fat foods, like skim milk, vegetables, and whole wheat breads.

Diabetes Websites

• American Diabetes Association: http://www.diabetes.org
• Indian Health Service: http://www.ihs.gov
• Association of American Indian Physicians: http://www.aaip.com

Source:
"Diabetes and American Indian Elders." http://www.ihs.gov/MedicalPrograms/Diabetes/AlEldersandDiab.asp (12/14/2000).
United Tribes Technical College Program
Bismark, ND