Daily HealthBeat Tip - May 26, 2008

Surprised by diabetes

From the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, I’m Ira Dreyfuss with HHS HealthBeat.

With diabetes on the rise, Dr. Jane Kelly of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is concerned that some people may not realize they are at risk.

``Focus groups we’ve done with Asian-Americans told us that they don’t think they are at risk for diabetes because in general they have a smaller body size compared to non-Asian-Americans.’’ (10 seconds)

Excess weight is a risk factor. But Kelly says the risk is at a lower weight-for-height cut-off for Asians.

“For example, an Asian man who is five foot eight inches tall and weighs 155 pounds may not be considered overweight by his doctor, but in fact, for his height and weight, he is at increased risk for diabetes.”  (13 seconds)

Kelly says diabetes can be prevented or delayed by being more physically active and making healthy food choices.

Learn more at hhs.gov.

HHS HealthBeat is a production of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. I’m Ira Dreyfuss.

Last revised: May, 27 2008