Did you know?
On its current course, the number of people with diabetes is projected to nearly double by 2034 to 44.1 million due in large part to the aging of the baby boom population and increased rates of overweight and obesity.
Huang et al (2009) Projecting the Future Diabetes
Population Size and Related Costs for the U.S. Diabetes Care, December 2009, Vol. 32, No 12, 2225-2229
 |
Depiction Suggestions
26 million Americans are living with diabetes, and another 57 million are at risk for developing the disease. Think about how many of your characters could be at risk for diabetes or how they could advocate for diabetes screening for their loved ones who may be at risk. -- There are many myths and misconceptions regarding diabetes, and the public may not be fully aware of the potential symptoms of the disease. By depicting a character with accurate symptoms such as experiencing unusual weight loss, frequent urination, extreme hunger, unusual thirst, or extreme fatigue the audience could potentially identify symptoms personally or in a loved one.
-- Understanding the importance of early detection and treatment is key to preventing complications. Consider including a scene where diabetes risk factors and symptoms are introduced. Due to an increased understanding of the disease, your character may reach out to support a newly diagnosed friend or family member, or even seek screening for themselves or a loved one.
|
| Myths about diabetes can lead to misconceptions of risk factors and late diagnosis. Here is the reality... MYTH: Diabetes rarely goes undiagnosed. FACT: There are 7 million people in the United States living with diabetes who are undiagnosed. The American Diabetes Association recommends that all adults who are overweight and have at least one additional risk factor be tested for diabetes. These risk factors include physical inactivity, immediate relative (immediate = 1st degree relative) with diabetes, member of a high-risk population (e.g. African American, Latino, Native American, Asian American, Pacific Islander), diagnosed hypertension (at least 140/90 mmHg or on therapy for hypertension), HDL cholesterol levels (HDL is <35mg/dL), history of cardiovascular disease and women with polycystic ovarian syndrome. In the absence of known risk factors testing is recommended beginning at age 45 and should continue every 3 years. Portions of this newsletter adapted from: |
| First Draft
EIC's FREE resource to the creative community offering access to experts on this and many other topics.
To set up your own FREE First Draft Consultation Contact: Ashley at ajupin@eiconline.org or call 818-840-2016
For more EIC updates visit our Social Networking sites!
|