Diabetes mellitus is a group of diseases characterized by high levels of blood glucose resulting from defects in insulin production, insulin action, or both. Diabetes can be associated with serious complications and premature death, but people with diabetes can take steps to control the disease and lower the risk of complications.


Type 2 diabetes

Previously called non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) or adult onset diabetes, Type 2 diabetes may account for about 90 percent to 95 percent of all diagnosed cases of diabetes. It usually begins as insulin resistance, a disorder in which the cells do not use insulin properly. As the need for insulin rises, the pancreas gradually loses its ability to produce insulin.

Type 2 diabetes is associated with older age, obesity, family history of diabetes, history of gestational diabetes, impaired glucose metabolism, physical inactivity, and race/ethnicity.

Gestational diabetes is a form of glucose intolerance that is diagnosed in some women during pregnancy. Gestational diabetes occurs more frequently among African Americans, Hispanic/Latino Americans, and American Indians. It is also more common among obese women and women with a family history of diabetes. During pregnancy, gestational diabetes requires treatment to normalize maternal blood glucose levels to avoid complications in the infant.

Type 1 diabetes

Previously called insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) or juvenile onset diabetes, Type 1 diabetes develops when the body's immune system destroys pancreatic beta cells, the only cells in the body that make the hormone insulin that regulates blood glucose. This form of diabetes usually strikes children and young adults, although disease onset can occur at any age.

18.2 million people - 6.3 percent of the population - have diabetes.
Diagnosed: 13 million people
Undiagnosed: 5.2 million people

Comprehensive Diabetes Program

CRMC offers diabetes education at the Lifestyle Center for children as well as adults. If you have recently been diagnosed with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, hypoglycemia or Gestational diabetes, the certified professionals here at the Lifestyle Center can teach you everything you need to know about your disease.

Diabetes affects many different life activities. The educators teach you how to control your diabetes with medication, nutrition and exercise.

Our program includes:

• A 1 hour appointment with a Registered Nurse.
• A 1 hour appointment with a Registered Dietitian.
• 3 - 2 1/2 hour intense educational classes that include: “Learning the Diabetes Basics, Medication & Insulin”; “Nutrition”; “Exercise for Control/ Preventing Complications”; and a 4th optional class “Cooking for Diabetes.”