TWO MILLION ARIZONANS HAVE PREDIABETES ACCORDING TO THE LATEST AZ DEPT. OF HEALTH SERVICES REPORT

The Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) released a comprehensive report addressing the state's diabetes burden. Key highlights include:​

• Over 615,000 adults in Arizona live with diabetes, and nearly 2 million have prediabetes, with 90% unaware of their condition.​

• The annual economic impact is estimated at $6.7 billion.​

• The plan emphasizes prevention, early detection, and improved access to care, particularly for high-risk groups such as Native American, Hispanic, and African American communities.

UNDERSTANDING DIABETES

There are three main types of diabetes: 

1. Type 1 Diabetes

   • Often diagnosed in children and young adults 

   • Results from the body’s inability to produce insulin 

   • Requires lifelong insulin therapy

2. Type 2 Diabetes 

   • Accounts for up to 95% of all diabetes diagnosis 

   • Occurs when the body can produce insulin but cannot use it effectively

   • Risk factors include being overweight, having a family history of diabetes, not being physically active, and being over the age of 45

   • African Americans, Native Americans, and Hispanic individuals are at higher risk 

3. Gestational Diabetes

   • Affects about 11.5% of pregnancies in Arizona 

   • Increases the risk of Type 2 diabetes in both the mother and the child (an upcoming Direct Diabetes Podcast discusses this, details down below)

STEPS TO LOWER YOUR RISK

Taking proactive steps can help manage diabetes and prevent its onset. 

• Find movement you enjoy: All movement counts. There are many ways to be active. Activities like walking, swimming, house or yard work, taking the stairs or playing with pets all count toward an active lifestyle. 

• Visit your doctor regularly: Regular exams can identify problems before they become more serious. Getting the right health services, screenings, and treatments can improve your chances of better outcomes. Request an A1C test to know where your blood sugar numbers stand, and know your numbers for high blood pressure. 

• Eat nourishing foods: Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy. Choose foods that honor your culture, your body, and your taste buds.

Understanding the scope of diabetes is a vital step toward reducing its impact.  The 2025 Arizona Diabetes Action Plan and Report serves as a valuable resource for individuals, communities, and policymakers committed to addressing this public health challenge.