Diabetes is a long-lasting health issue that can lead to serious problems. If not controlled well, it can harm the eyes, feet, heart, kidneys, and nerves. These are called diabetes complications1. Yet, with a healthy lifestyle, keeping blood sugar in check, and regular doctor visits, many with type 1 diabetes or type 2 diabetes can beat these issues or slow them down1.
It also makes getting certain diseases more likely. But, getting vaccines like the flu shot, pneumococcal shot, and hepatitis B shot can offer protection1. Those with diabetes might need more check-ups – two to four each year, plus the usual yearly check-up and eye tests1. If they have high blood pressure too, the risks go up, which could cause heart issues, strokes, or worse1.
It’s essential to avoid smoking, which boosts the chance of getting type 2 diabetes and its severe effects. This includes heart problems, strokes, eye and kidney troubles, and death too soon1. Adding high cholesterol into the mix makes diabetes and high blood pressure more harmful. This combo increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other severe conditions1.
Key Takeaways
- Diabetes can lead to serious and life-threatening complications if not properly managed.
- Regular check-ups and preventive measures can delay or prevent these issues.
- Changing to a healthy lifestyle is key in managing diabetes and lowering complication risks.
- Keeping an eye on blood sugar, eye health, and feet is critical for those with diabetes.
- Fast medical help for any diabetes symptoms can stop further problems.
Overview of Diabetes Complications
Diabetes is a condition that lasts a long time and has many possible problems if not managed. These problems fall into two types, chronic and acute. Chronic issues happen slowly over time. Acute problems can happen fast and be very dangerous2. It’s important to know about these issues because they can really change someone’s life. They affect vision, how you move, sex, and health in general2.
Chronic and Acute Complications
Long-term diabetes problems can hurt the eyes, cause foot trouble, heart issues, kidney problems, and hurt nerves2. These can grow over many years. If not treated, they can cause big health issues. These might include going blind, losing limbs, heart troubles, strokes, and kidney failure2.
Short-term problems can happen quickly and need fast medical help. These include when blood sugar gets too low or too high. These could be life-threatening if not managed well2. It’s vital for people with diabetes to keep their blood sugar in check. They must also know the signs of these fast problems2.
Impact on Quality of Life
Diabetes troubles can really change how a person lives. Eye, foot, and moving issues, as well as problems with sex, make daily life tough. This can lower someone’s well-being2. It’s key to have regular health check-ups and keep sugar levels in control. A healthy life is crucial to stop or delay these troubles and stay well2.
Progress in caring for diabetes and its research never stop. The goal is better treatments and less problems for people with diabetes2. Working closely with health care providers and sticking to a good health plan helps. This can lower the risk of facing these issues2.
Eye Problems and Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetes can cause a serious eye problem called diabetic retinopathy3. It damages the blood vessels in the eye’s retina3. This is the part of the eye that detects light3.
High blood sugar makes these blood vessels swell or leak3. It can also make them grow abnormally3.
This condition starts with non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR)3. It can lead to proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR)3. In PDR, new blood vessels grow and can bleed or cause scarring3.
Symptoms may include blurry vision and floaters3. Over time, it can cause dark spots and loss of vision3. Doctors can check for it by examining the retina3.
Treatment includes controlling blood sugar and blood pressure3. Medications and surgeries may also help3. It’s important to have regular eye exams to catch it early3.
Anyone with diabetes is at risk of diabetic retinopathy4. Managing diabetes well can lower the risk4. Certain groups are more at risk of losing their vision4.
About one-third of people over 40 with diabetes show signs of retinopathy5. It’s the top cause of vision loss in diabetes5. Early treatment can cut the risk of blindness5.
It’s important for everyone with diabetes to manage it well and get their eyes checked5. This can protect against diabetic retinopathy5.
| Condition | Description | Impact on Vision |
|---|---|---|
| Non-Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (NPDR) | Damaged blood vessels in the retina cause swelling and leakage. | Macular edema and macular ischemia can impair vision. |
| Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (PDR) | New, abnormal blood vessels grow on the surface of the retina, prone to bleeding and scarring. | Potential for severe vision loss or blindness due to retinal detachment. |
Diabetic retinopathy is a big concern for those with diabetes. But, caring for your health and eyes can make a big difference345.
Foot Complications and Amputation Risk
Diabetes is tough on your feet, impacting your health and happiness. It can cause diabetic neuropathy and poor circulation. These two issues up the chances of having diabetic foot complications and maybe needing an amputation.
Nerve Damage and Poor Circulation
Diabetes can lead to nerve damage, which means you might not feel cuts or sores on your feet6. It also causes poor circulation. This slows down the healing of any wounds and makes infections and diabetic foot ulcers more likely6. If these ulcers aren’t treated, amputation might be the last resort7.
Here are some alarming facts:8 Between 2009 and 2019, more people went to the hospital for amputations because of diabetes8. Those in the Southern United States often have this problem most8. Black adults with diabetes have higher amputation rates than White adults or those of Hispanic descent8. Taking care of your feet is key to avoid these problems6. Doing regular foot checks and using protective shoes can cut the amputation risk6. Medicare and some insurances may cover these special shoes6.
Social determinants of health (SDOH) such as poverty, unstable jobs, and lack of transport also affect amputation risks8. How well someone understands health info plays a part too8. People who don’t read health terms well often end up with more amputations. Knowing these dangers and acting early can make a big difference876.
Cardiovascular Diseases: Heart Attacks and Strokes
Having diabetes makes the risk of heart attacks and strokes higher9. Diabetes harms blood vessels and nerves controlling the heart and blood vessels. This leads to less blood flow and more plaque in the arteries9. This can cause coronary artery disease, the top kind of heart disease affecting the heart’s blood flow9.
Plaque build-up from hardened arteries can cut blood flow even more, raising the chances of heart attacks and strokes9. People with diabetes face more heart failure risk than others9. They also face a higher risk if they have high blood pressure, high LDL cholesterol, and low HDL cholesterol10.
Bad habits like smoking, being too heavy, not moving enough, and eating poorly can add to heart disease risk910. It’s key for those with diabetes to keep an eye on their blood pressure, cholesterol, weight, and heart health. This helps in understanding and reducing the risk of heart issues910.
For people with diabetes, managing blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol is vital. Lifestyle changes and medicines can help lower the risk of heart attacks and strokes91011. A good diet, a fit body, staying active, and handling stress are also crucial. They can cut down on the chance of heart diseases for those with diabetes1011.
“Diabetes is a major risk factor for heart disease, and it’s crucial for individuals with diabetes to take proactive steps to manage their condition and reduce their risk of cardiovascular complications.”
Kidney Disease and Nephropathy
Diabetes can really hurt your kidneys, causing diabetic nephropathy or kidney disease12. About 1 in 3 diabetics in the U.S. face this issue12. Diabetic nephropathy affects both type 1 and type 2 diabetes patients. It grows slowly worse over time12.
High Blood Sugar and Blood Pressure
High blood sugar and pressure hurt kidneys badly12. A kidney has many tiny filters. Diabetes harms their filtering, making it hard to remove waste12. To avoid this, you must keep sugar and pressure low12.
Cigarettes, high cholesterol, and obesity boost kidney risk12. They, along with bad family history, worsen kidney pressure12. Without control, it might end in kidney failure. Then, only dialysis or a transplant can help12.
Issued in public interest (Official Website)
You can lower this risk by watching diabetes and pressure closely12. Keeping a good weight, not smoking, and taking meds are big steps12. Getting regular health checks is vital, too. They spot kidney issues early on12.
| Key Statistics on Diabetic Nephropathy | Value |
|---|---|
| Estimated number of people with diabetes in the U.S. in 2011 | 26 million13 |
| Individuals with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) due to diabetes in the U.S. in 2011 | Over 200,00013 |
| Diabetes type most likely to progress to ESRD | Type 113 |
| Recommended routine testing frequency for diabetic nephropathy | Yearly for those with type 2 diabetes or type 1 diabetes for over 5 years14 |
| Key tests for diabetic nephropathy | Urinary albumin test, Albumin/creatinine ratio, Glomerular filtration rate (GFR)14 |
| Medications used to manage diabetic nephropathy | ACE inhibitors, ARBs, insulin, Metformin, GLP-1 receptor agonists, SGLT2 inhibitors, statins, Finerenone14 |
| End-stage kidney disease treatment options | Kidney dialysis, peritoneal dialysis, kidney transplant14 |
“Preventing or slowing the progression of diabetic nephropathy is crucial for maintaining kidney health and quality of life for individuals with diabetes.”
Careful management of diabetes, plus healthy lifestyle choices, is key12. Regular check-ups and sticking to your treatment plan are crucial12. This combo can help save kidney function and boost your health12.
Diabetes Management
Keeping your diabetes in check is important to avoid serious health issues. You need to watch what you eat, add in some exercise, and take your meds as the doctor tells you15. Regular doctor visits and tests keep everything on track, helping you stay healthy15.
Living healthy is a big part of handling diabetes well15. Adults should aim for 150 minutes of exercise every week15. That’s about 30 minutes most days15. This will help your body use insulin better15. But, be wary of play hard or new sports; it might lower your blood sugar too much15.
Part of looking after diabetes is keeping your blood sugar in check16. Aim to keep your A1C below 7% for good glucose control16. Blood pressure should be under 130/80 mm Hg16. Try to keep your sugar between 80 – 130 mg/dL before a meal. After eating, keep it under 180 mg/dL16.
Taking your diabetes meds correctly is also key15. You need to store insulin and other medicines right15. Some meds for other problems can change your blood sugar too15.
Managing diabetes well means changing how you live, taking your meds, and checking on your health often17. For type 1, this includes checking your blood sugar and taking insulin every day. For type 2, there’s a special plan just for you to keep your blood sugar where it needs to be17. Eating well and staying active are super important for both types to keep healthy and lower blood sugar17.
Nerve Damage and Neuropathy
Diabetes can cause a serious problem called diabetic neuropathy. It happens when nerves get damaged18. This damage can affect how you feel, move, and perform body functions in places like your feet, legs, and hands18. It leads to numbness, tingling, pain, and can even make you lose function18. This makes you more likely to have other issues like foot ulcers and maybe even need amputations18.
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It’s key to keep your blood sugar in check to avoid or slow down neuropathy19. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) says aim for blood sugar between 80 and 130 mg/dL on an empty stomach, and an A1C of 7.0% or less19. Mayo Clinic agrees but notes older adults or those with specific health issues might have slightly different goals19.
Staying active is also important. The ADA suggests 150 minutes of moderate or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise each week19. This is good for lowering blood sugar and staying healthy overall19.
If you have neuropathic pain, there are ways to treat it. Doctors might prescribe drugs like pregabalin, gabapentin, or certain antidepressants19. You could also try things like capsaicin cream, alpha-lipoic acid supplements, or acupuncture for relief with fewer side effects19.
Diabetic neuropathy is very serious. It could affect up to 50% of those with diabetes. High and uncontrolled blood sugar makes it more likely to happen, along with other complications of diabetes20. Getting checked regularly, keeping your blood sugar in check, and looking after your nerves are crucial steps. They can help avoid or lessen the impact of this condition20.
In short, diabetic neuropathy is a common but very severe complication of diabetes. It takes careful control, exercise, and the right treatments to fight it. By focusing on these areas, you can reduce nerve damage and boost your life’s quality181920.
Oral and Dental Health Issues
Diabetes can badly affect your mouth and teeth. It ups the risk of gum disease and cavities. This happens because high blood sugar helps bad bacteria grow. This leads to swollen, infected gums21. People with diabetes also find it harder to beat these mouth bugs21.
Gum Disease and Tooth Decay
If you have diabetes, watch out for gum disease. It might get worse and heal slower in you21. You’re also more likely to have cavities, thanks to more bad mouth bacteria21. Plus, diabetes can make you produce less spit, leading to a dry mouth. That makes dental problems more likely21.
So, make sure to take care of your teeth and see your dentist often. Treating gum disease might even help control your blood sugar. This is good news for managing diabetes21. If you smoke and have diabetes, you’re at even bigger risk. Smoking worsens gum disease and overall mouth health21.
In the U.S., about2234 million have diabetes. Every year, 1.5 million get diagnosed22. And 22% of people with diabetes have gum disease. This shows diabetes can really affect your mouth22.
But there’s good news. Treating gum disease might help control your blood sugar. Cleanings at the dentist might lower your HbA1c levels, which check your blood sugar over 3 months22.
Now, let’s talk numbers. In the U.S., over 34 million people have diabetes23. Shockingly, 1 in 5 who have it don’t even know. Also, over 88 million adults have prediabetes. But 4 out of 5 of these people don’t know they’re at risk23. Type II diabetes is most common, making up 85% to 90% of cases23. This number has doubled in the last 20 years23.
Dental issues can be serious. Diabetes might even cause you to lose teeth. Gum disease could raise your risk of getting type 2 diabetes. And, uncontrolled diabetes leads to mouth abscesses. So, visiting your dentist at least twice a year is important. It helps prevent serious dental problems related to diabetes23.
“Maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups are important for people with diabetes.”
Sexual and Bladder Problems
Diabetes affects intimate health, leading to issues with sex and the bladder. It’s vital for people with diabetes to know these problems. This helps them keep their quality of life and well-being strong.
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Sexual Dysfunction in Men and Women
Both men and women with diabetes can face sexual issues. Men might see erectile dysfunction (ED) 10 to 15 years earlier than others. Over half of diabetic men will experience ED24. They are also more than 3 times likely to have ED than non-diabetic men24. Diabetes can cause Peyronie’s disease, retrograde ejaculation, and low testosterone in men24.
Diabetic women might have sexual dysfunction 30–40% of the time25. They could have less desire, not enough lubrication, and find it hard to reach orgasm25. Diabetes might also make it tough to get pregnant. This is more common if they’re overweight or have other conditions like PCOS24.
Bladder Problems and Incontinence
Diabetes can lead to bladder problems too, including incontinence and UTIs. It can harm the nerves and affect sugar levels in the bladder. This can cause issues like overactive bladder and urine leakage25. There are treatments like behavioral approaches, medicines, and surgeries for these problems25.
Changes in how sex or the bladder works might be a sign of diabetes24. Talking openly with doctors and getting the right treatment is key. It helps in handling these issues of intimate health.
Facing the sexual and bladder issues linked with diabetes is important. Understanding the risks and getting help promptly can improve life for those with diabetes. They should seek care to manage these problems and enhance their well-being.
“Diabetes can disrupt sexual and bladder health. But, proper care and support can help manage these difficulties and keep life quality high.”
Skin Conditions and Infections
People with diabetes tend to get more skin problems than others. If diabetes isn’t controlled, it can harm small blood vessels. This makes the skin more likely to have issues like infections, dryness, and diabetic dermopathy26. Taking good care of your skin and dealing with any problems right away is key for those with diabetes.
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A dark, thickened skin condition called acanthosis nigricans is often seen with obesity. It can signal you might get prediabetes or type 2 diabetes27. Diabetic dermopathy, known as “shin spots,” is quite common and affects around 55% of people with diabetes28. Another rare condition, necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum (NLD), is more likely in those with type 1 diabetes2728.
Diabetes makes you more likely to get bacterial and fungal infections27. Infections like staph or strep are more common in diabetes27. Fungal issues, such as candidiasis and tinea, are also more likely if blood sugar isn’t controlled well27.
Many with diabetes face dry, itchy skin problems27. This can happen because of bad blood flow, which is common in diabetes27. Other skin problems like digital sclerosis, eruptive xanthomatosis, and diabetic blisters might also appear with uncontrolled diabetes27.
Keeping your diabetes under control helps prevent skin issues28. This means checking your blood sugar often, living healthy, and treating skin problems quickly28. You can use over-the-counter products, prescriptions, and lifestyle changes for diabetes skin care28.
| Skin Condition | Description | Prevalence in Diabetes |
|---|---|---|
| Acanthosis nigricans | Darkening and thickening of the skin, often associated with obesity and prediabetes/type 2 diabetes | Common |
| Diabetic dermopathy | Also known as “shin spots,” a common skin condition in diabetes | Up to 55% of individuals with diabetes |
| Necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum (NLD) | A rare skin condition that tends to affect individuals with type 1 diabetes | Rare, but more common in type 1 diabetes |
| Bacterial infections | Increased risk of bacterial skin infections, such as staphylococcal or streptococcal infections | More common in diabetes |
| Fungal infections | Increased risk of fungal skin infections, including candidiasis and tinea infections | More common when blood sugar levels are not well-managed |
| Dry, itchy skin | A result of poor circulation, which is more likely in individuals with diabetes | Common in diabetes |
Diabetes greatly affects skin health, causing many issues and infections. By managing diabetes well, taking good care of your skin, and seeking treatment for any problems, you can avoid or better handle these skin conditions262728.
Conclusion
Diabetes is serious and can lead to life-threatening issues if left unmanaged. Many with diabetes don’t get the right screenings for their eyes, which can catch problems early29. To avoid these issues, it’s important to control blood sugar, live healthily, and see your doctor often. Doing this helps many delay or avoid complications30. Managing diabetes well is key to living a good life.
In the past 40 years, home blood sugar monitoring has changed how people manage diabetes30. Those who manage their diabetes the best have lower HbA1c levels. This shows they control their diabetes well31. Preventing diabetes problems and good management lead to better health for those with diabetes.
Managing diabetes involves many things. This includes medical care, changing your habits, and taking care of yourself every day. Giving patients the tools and knowledge to manage their diabetes means they can live better lives293031.
Issued in public interest (Official Website)
FAQ
What are the complications of diabetes?
Diabetes can lead to serious health issues. It can damage eyes, feet, heart, and more. By changing your lifestyle, keeping blood sugar in check, and visiting the doctor, many issues can be avoided.
What are the different types of diabetes complications?
Complications from diabetes fall into two categories: chronic and acute. Chronic problems develop slowly, causing major harm over time. Acute issues, however, come on suddenly and can be life-threatening. They can lower your quality of life, impacting how well you can see, move, and function sexually.
How can diabetes affect the eyes?
Diabetes can damage blood vessels in your eyes, leading to problems like diabetic retinopathy. This condition can harm your vision. It’s crucial to get regular eye exams to catch and treat it early.
What foot complications can diabetes cause?
Diabetes can harm the nerves and circulation in your feet. This makes it easier to miss injuries, and harder for them to heal. It could even lead to amputation without proper care. Regular foot checks and care are vital to avoid these issues.
How can diabetes affect the heart and cardiovascular system?
Diabetes can hurt your heart and blood vessels. This raises the risk of heart attacks and strokes. You can lower this risk by controlling your blood sugar and blood pressure, and taking care of your cholesterol.
What are the effects of diabetes on the kidneys?
Diabetes can hurt your kidneys over time. This makes it hard for them to filter your blood properly. To protect your kidneys, manage your blood sugar and blood pressure well.
How can diabetes affect the nerves?
Diabetes can damage your nerves. This is known as diabetic neuropathy. It can cause pain, numbness, and other issues, especially in your feet and hands. To avoid these problems, control your blood sugar carefully.
What oral and dental health issues can diabetes cause?
Diabetes can make you more likely to have gum disease and tooth decay. It affects the germs in your mouth. To keep your mouth healthy, take good care of it and see your dentist often.
How can diabetes affect sexual and bladder function?
Diabetes can harm your sexual and bladder health. It affects blood flow and nerves in those areas. If you’re experiencing issues, talk to your doctor for help.
What skin conditions and infections are associated with diabetes?
Diabetes can cause skin infections and slow healing. It changes blood vessels, making your skin more prone to issues. Taking care of your skin and treating any issues quickly is key.
Issued in public interest (Official Website)
Source Links
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- Complications of diabetes – https://www.diabetes.org.uk/guide-to-diabetes/complications
- Diabetic Retinopathy: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment – https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/what-is-diabetic-retinopathy
- At risk of diabetes-related vision loss?-Diabetic retinopathy – Symptoms & causes – Mayo Clinic – https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetic-retinopathy/symptoms-causes/syc-20371611
- Diabetic Eye Disease – NIDDK – https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes/overview/preventing-problems/diabetic-eye-disease
- The Link Between Diabetes and Amputation – https://www.webmd.com/diabetes/amputation-diabetes
- Diagnosis and Management of Diabetic Foot Complications – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK538977/
- Preventing Diabetes-Related Amputations – https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/diabetes-complications/preventing-diabetes-related-amputations.html
- Your Heart and Diabetes – https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/diabetes-complications/diabetes-and-your-heart.html
- Diabetes, Heart Disease, & Stroke – NIDDK – https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes/overview/preventing-problems/heart-disease-stroke
- Cardiovascular Disease and Diabetes – https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/diabetes/diabetes-complications-and-risks/cardiovascular-disease–diabetes
- Diabetic nephropathy (kidney disease) – Symptoms and causes – https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetic-nephropathy/symptoms-causes/syc-20354556
- Diabetic Nephropathy (Kidney Disease) – https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/diabetes/diabetic-nephropathy-kidney-disease
- Diabetic nephropathy (kidney disease) – Diagnosis and treatment – Mayo Clinic – https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetic-nephropathy/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20354562
- Diabetes management: How lifestyle, daily routine affect blood sugar – https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetes/in-depth/diabetes-management/art-20047963
- Managing Diabetes – NIDDK – https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes/overview/managing-diabetes
- Newly Diagnosed with Diabetes | ADA – https://diabetes.org/living-with-diabetes/newly-diagnosed
- Diabetic neuropathy (nerve damage) – https://www.diabetes.org.uk/guide-to-diabetes/complications/nerves_neuropathy
- An often preventable complication of diabetes-Diabetic neuropathy – Diagnosis & treatment – Mayo Clinic – https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetic-neuropathy/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20371587
- An often preventable complication of diabetes-Diabetic neuropathy – Symptoms & causes – Mayo Clinic – https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetic-neuropathy/symptoms-causes/syc-20371580
- Oral Health and Diabetes – https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/diabetes-complications/diabetes-and-oral-health.html
- Diabetes – https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/diabetes
- Diabetes and Your Oral Health – https://dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/prevention-wellness/oral-health/fast-facts-oral-health/diabetes-oral-health.html
- Diabetes, Sexual, & Bladder Problems – NIDDK – https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes/overview/preventing-problems/sexual-bladder-problems
- How Is Diabetes Related to Urinary Tract and Sexual Problems? – Blog – NIDDK – https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/professionals/diabetes-discoveries-practice/how-diabetes-related-to-urinary-tract-problems
- A Comprehensive Overview of Skin Complications in Diabetes and Their Prevention – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10259731/
- Diabetes and Your Skin – https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/signs-symptoms/diabetes-and-your-skin.html
- How Does Type 2 Diabetes Affect Skin Health? – https://www.healthline.com/health/type-2-diabetes/skin-problems
- Summary and Conclusion – A Practical Guide to Diabetes-Related Eye Care – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK582430/
- The Role of Blood Glucose Monitoring in Diabetes Management – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK566165/
- Using Patient Profiles for Sustained Diabetes Management Among People With Type 2 Diabetes – https://www.cdc.gov/pcd/issues/2023/22_0210.htm