Father’s Day, Could your dad’s health be in jeopardy?
THRIVING WITH DIABETES
Could Your Dad’s Health Be in Jeopardy?
This Father’s Day, show dad you care by encouraging him to assess his risk for diabetes or other diabetes-related complications such as heart attack or stroke. More than 10 percent of all men ages 20 and over have diabetes. The symptoms of type 2 diabetes, the most common form of the disease, can come on so gradually that nearly a third of men with diabetes don’t know they have the disease until they develop one of its serious or deadly complications such as heart disease and stroke.
“Research has shown that many times men do not go to the doctor unless they are sick or have symptoms such as pain or fever,” commented Peter Sheehan, MD. “Unfortunately preventive care and routine check ups are usually tabled for ‘another time.’”
It’s time for a check up if your dad is:
overweight or obese
smokes
is physically inactive
has high cholesterol, blood glucose, or blood pressure
older than 45
is from a high risk ethnic population (e.g., Non-Hispanic Blacks, Hispanic/Latino Americans, Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, and American Indians and Alaska Natives)
if type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease run in your family
Here are some suggestions to start that check up discussion with your dad this Father’s Day:
1) This won’t hurt a bit – A good place to start is ADA’s online tools. These include the Diabetes Risk Test, Diabetes PHD, and CheckUp America. If any of these tools indicates a cause for concern, you may want to talk to dad about going to see his health care provider. These tools will also help him create a list of questions that he can bring to his appointment.
2) Because I care – Let dad know that his health is important to you. Often we think our fathers are invincible and smart. Fortunately dads are smart enough to recognize that they aren’t invincible. Give your support to your father as he takes steps to be proactive about his health. The smallest chat with a health care professional can make a big difference when it’s about preventative measures, such as weight loss, diet change, or regular medical screenings. Dad may not be invincible, but you can help him adjust his actions so that he is as healthy as possible.
3) Look at the family tree – Knowing your family history can help shape your family’s future. Talk with your dad about the importance of family history when it comes to your health and the health of your children. Family history plays an important role in recognizing potential concerns or genetic links. The more you know about your parents’ health, the better you and your doctor will be able to map out health goals for you and your children.
Remember, your dad may still be invincible to you, but nothing says “I love you” like showing him that you want to keep him healthy and vital for years to come.
10JUN08 ATL Tour de Cure Committee Meeting
Good news. The ATL 2008 Diabetes Tour de Cure Planning Committee met last night. So far, the event has generated > $359,000 in donations for the American Diabetes Association. This money will be used for diabetes research, education and advocacy. Great job to all the great folks who participated in the 2008 Tour de Cure, wherever you are.
I am still working on fundraising and matching gifts before the June 20th deadline.
Join my team or support me: Click Here
