Type II Diabetes Mellitus is characterized by insulin resistance which prevents the body from properly absorbing glucose. Uncontrolled, high blood sugar content will damage blood vessels which can lead to cell death in the heart, kidneys, skin and eyes. The rising prevalence of Diabetes is associated with rapid cultural & social changes, increasing urbanization, dietary changes & reduced physical activity.
1 in 3 Americans are expected to develop Diabetes in their lifetime
57 Million Americans currently have pre-diabetes which is the short window of three to six years when a person has demonstrated elevated blood glucose and other lifestyle risks but has not yet developed Type II Diabetes. Without systematic intervention during this window of pre-diabetes, this condition will likely develop into full, non-reversible Type II Diabetes in these persons. (CDC April 14, 2010)
Current Global Healthcare Epidemic:
246 Million people have Diabetes (2006)
Annual Diabetes global healthcare expenditure: USD $376 B
(11.6% of all healthcare expenses worldwide)
2030 Projected Epidemic:
380 Million people with Diabetes -- mostly Type II
Annual Diabetes global healthcare expenditure: USD $490 B
BAD NEWS: 75% of Americans will be overweight or obese by 2015
Current annual nation-wide costs related to Diabetes: $58 Billion
Risk factors begin developing during childhood and are amplified during adulthood. In the past fifteen years, obesity in Minnesota children increased from 10.2% to 24%. With the high prevalence of children and youth already obese, these numbers are expected to grow exponentially in coming years.
GOOD NEWS: Diabetes can be delayed or prevented
Studies all show that through moderate lifestyle changes, Type II diabetes, its potential complications and many cardiovascular conditions can be delayed or prevented without prescription medication
DDP is safe * Inexpensive * Effective * Sustainable * Reproducible Physical activity 150 minutes a week, reducing fat and calories, and even moderate weight loss of 5-7% can delay the 3-year onset of Type II by 58%.
DPP costs less than $200 per pre-diabetes participant to save billions in the next three to six years. We have an available, willing volunteer work force that already has an influence over the children we wish to reach. We aim to test-pilot a variation of the DPP with Minnesota children and youth because the DPP is targeted and proven for 18+ years old. Once a new model has been scientifically vetted, we aim to replicate that program globally with partners from the Rotary, scouting and athletic communities.
