By Staff Report
Diabetes, a chronic health condition affecting millions of Americans, has become a growing concern in Arkansas and eastern Oklahoma.
According to recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the rates of diabetes in these states are significantly higher than the national average, with the River Valley region seeing an alarming increase in new diagnoses over the past decade.
As more families confront this serious health issue, local health officials, medical experts, and community organizations are sounding the alarm and urging residents to take proactive steps to manage or prevent the disease.
Diabetes is a condition where the body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or cannot effectively use the insulin it produces. This leads to elevated blood sugar levels, which can cause serious health complications if not managed.
The two most common forms of diabetes are Type 1, often diagnosed in childhood or early adulthood, and Type 2, which is more commonly diagnosed in adults and is often linked to lifestyle factors such as obesity and inactivity.
Type 2 diabetes, which accounts for approximately 90-95% of all diabetes cases, has been on the rise in Arkansas and Oklahoma, particularly in rural and low-income communities. Experts point to a combination of poor diet, lack of exercise, and limited access to healthcare as contributing factors.
According to the Arkansas Department of Health, nearly 14% of the adult population in the state has been diagnosed with diabetes, while an additional 35% are estimated to have prediabetes—meaning they are at high risk of developing the condition in the near future. Similarly, in Oklahoma, more than 12% of adults live with diabetes, with rural areas particularly affected.
The burden of diabetes is not just felt in terms of health but also financially. The American Diabetes Association estimates that the annual cost of diagnosed diabetes in Arkansas alone exceeds $3 billion, factoring in medical costs and lost productivity.
Local healthcare providers are seeing the effects of the diabetes epidemic firsthand. An endocrinologist based in Fort Smith expressed concern over the growing number of patients being diagnosed with diabetes at younger ages. "We’re seeing more patients in their 30s and 40s with Type 2 diabetes, which is very concerning," she said. "It used to be considered a disease of older adults, but lifestyle factors are pushing the onset earlier."
In rural communities, the challenges are even more pronounced. Many residents lack access to fresh, healthy food options, relying instead on processed and fast foods, which are high in sugar and unhealthy fats. Additionally, limited access to healthcare means that diabetes often goes undiagnosed and untreated until complications arise.
If not properly managed, diabetes can lead to a range of serious health problems, including heart disease, kidney failure, vision loss, and nerve damage. The risk of heart attack and stroke is significantly higher in people with diabetes, and the disease is the leading cause of non-traumatic amputations in the United States.
Residents in the River Valley and surrounding areas are particularly vulnerable due to higher rates of obesity and sedentary lifestyles. Experts warn that without significant intervention, the diabetes crisis will only worsen, leading to higher healthcare costs and a greater strain on families and the healthcare system.
The good news is that Type 2 diabetes can often be prevented or managed with lifestyle changes. Local health organizations are working to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining a healthy diet, staying active, and monitoring blood sugar levels.
The Arkansas Department of Health, along with several community partners, has launched initiatives to improve access to healthy food options in underserved areas and provide education about the importance of regular exercise. Additionally, diabetes education programs are being offered at local hospitals and clinics, helping residents learn how to manage their condition and avoid complications.
If you’re concerned about diabetes or believe you may be at risk, it’s important to take action. Here are a few steps recommended by health professionals:
Get screened: If you’re over 45, overweight, or have a family history of diabetes, talk to your doctor about getting tested for diabetes or prediabetes.
Adopt a healthy diet: Focus on whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Avoid sugary drinks and highly processed foods.
Exercise regularly: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week, such as walking, swimming, or cycling.
Monitor your health: If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, work with your healthcare team to monitor your blood sugar levels and follow a treatment plan.
Diabetes is a serious, lifelong condition, but with the right knowledge and support, it is manageable. For more information, contact your local healthcare provider or visit the Arkansas Department of Health website for resources on diabetes prevention and management.
Stay tuned to Today in Fort Smith for more health updates and community resources.
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