Discover 5 powerful ways to take control of your health this November during Diabetes Awareness Month. Learn how to prevent, manage, and thrive with diabetes through expert care at Professional Health Care of Pinellas.

Introduction

Every November, healthcare professionals and communities across the country observe Diabetes Awareness Month — a nationwide effort to educate, prevent, and support those affected by this chronic disease. Diabetes remains one of the leading health concerns in the United States, impacting more than 37 million adults and increasing every year.

At Professional Health Care of Pinellas, we’re committed to helping patients understand their risks, recognize warning signs early, and adopt healthier habits to live stronger, longer lives. This November, let’s talk about prevention, management, and how small daily choices can make a life-changing difference.

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What Is Diabetes?

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder where the body cannot effectively regulate blood sugar (glucose). Normally, the pancreas produces a hormone called insulin, which allows glucose to enter cells for energy. When insulin is absent, insufficient, or ineffective, glucose remains in the bloodstream — leading to elevated blood sugar levels.

Over time, uncontrolled glucose can damage the heart, kidneys, eyes, and nerves. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), diabetes is one of the top 10 causes of death in the U.S., but it’s also one of the most preventable.

The Three Main Types

1. Type 1 Diabetes – An autoimmune disorder where the immune system destroys the pancreas’s insulin-producing cells. People with Type 1 require insulin every day.

2. Type 2 Diabetes – The most common type, responsible for 90–95 % of cases. It occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin. Lifestyle factors play a significant role.

3. Gestational Diabetes – Develops during pregnancy and usually resolves after delivery but raises lifetime risk for Type 2 diabetes.

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Why November Matters

November is Diabetes Awareness Month because it includes World Diabetes Day on November 14, the birthday of Sir Frederick Banting, co-discoverer of insulin. This global initiative highlights education, early diagnosis, and improved access to care.

Raising awareness this month helps:

• Encourage earlier testing and diagnosis.

• Promote healthy habits and blood-sugar control.

• Support patients already living with diabetes.

• Drive policy changes and research funding.

Diabetes doesn’t discriminate — it affects children, adults, and seniors in every community. Awareness is the first step toward prevention.

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Recognizing the Warning Signs

Many people live with diabetes or prediabetes without realizing it. The symptoms can develop gradually, so screening is crucial.

Common warning signs include:

• Frequent urination and excessive thirst

• Unexplained weight loss

• Constant fatigue

• Blurred vision

• Slow-healing cuts or frequent infections

• Tingling in hands or feet (neuropathy)

If you experience these symptoms, schedule a diabetes screening appointment with your healthcare provider right away. Early detection allows for lifestyle adjustments that can prevent complications later.

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Who’s at Risk?

Certain risk factors increase the likelihood of developing Type 2 diabetes:

• Being overweight or obese (especially belly fat)

• Sedentary lifestyle

• Poor diet high in processed or sugary foods

• Age 45 or older

• Family history of diabetes

• High blood pressure or cholesterol

• History of gestational diabetes

• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

• Belonging to certain ethnic groups (African American, Hispanic/Latino, Asian American, Native American)

Understanding these risk factors empowers you to take preventive action — and Diabetes Awareness Month is the perfect time to start.

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Preventing Type 2 Diabetes

The encouraging truth: Type 2 diabetes can often be prevented or delayed. Research shows that lifestyle changes reduce risk by more than 50 %.

1️⃣ Adopt a Balanced Diet

Choose foods that stabilize blood sugar:

• High-fiber vegetables (broccoli, spinach, kale)

• Whole grains (brown rice, quinoa, oats)

• Lean proteins (fish, chicken, tofu)

• Healthy fats (olive oil, avocado, nuts)

Limit sugary beverages and refined carbohydrates. Try the MyPlate method — fill half your plate with vegetables, one-quarter with lean protein, and one-quarter with whole grains.

2️⃣ Stay Physically Active

Exercise boosts insulin sensitivity. Aim for at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity activity, such as brisk walking, swimming, or cycling. Even a 10-minute walk after meals can help lower blood sugar.

3️⃣ Maintain a Healthy Weight

Losing just 5–10 % of your body weight can dramatically cut diabetes risk. Discuss realistic, safe goals with your healthcare provider or our wellness team.

4️⃣ Get Enough Sleep and Manage Stress

Poor sleep and chronic stress raise cortisol, a hormone that can spike blood sugar. Try yoga, meditation, or deep-breathing techniques to stay balanced.

5️⃣ Schedule Regular Screenings

Ask your provider about:

• A1C test (average blood sugar over 3 months)

• Fasting glucose test

• Oral glucose tolerance test

These screenings can detect prediabetes, allowing for early lifestyle correction.

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Living Well With Diabetes

If you already have diabetes, it’s entirely possible to live a healthy, full life. Diabetes Awareness Month reminds us that management is about consistency, not perfection.

Essential Habits for Control

• Monitor blood sugar daily or as advised.

• Take medication or insulin exactly as prescribed.

• Plan meals that maintain steady glucose levels.

• Exercise regularly to improve insulin sensitivity.

• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol intake.

• Stay hydrated and get adequate sleep.

• Schedule routine check-ups for eyes, kidneys, heart, and feet.

For in-depth management guidance, visit the American Diabetes Association resource hub.

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The Complications of Uncontrolled Diabetes

When blood sugar remains high for long periods, complications may include:

• Heart disease and stroke — diabetes doubles cardiovascular risk.

• Kidney disease (nephropathy) — leading cause of dialysis.

• Nerve damage (neuropathy) — pain, numbness, and foot ulcers.

• Eye problems (retinopathy) — risk of blindness.

• Foot complications — infections that may require surgery.

• Skin conditions and gum disease.

Regular monitoring and follow-up care greatly reduce these risks.

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The Role of Family and Community

Diabetes management isn’t just an individual effort — family support matters. Encourage loved ones to join you in healthier eating, shared walks, or fitness classes.

Community engagement is vital, too:

• Organize diabetes-friendly cooking classes or wellness fairs.

• Join local support groups through hospitals or the National Diabetes Prevention Program.

• Share information on social media using #DiabetesAwarenessMonth and #StopDiabetes.

• Host or attend a free blood-sugar screening event.

Every conversation and shared post contributes to public awareness and saves lives.

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Diabetes and Mental Health

Living with diabetes can sometimes lead to stress, anxiety, or burnout — known as diabetes distress. It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed by daily management.

If you struggle emotionally, consider:

• Speaking with a counselor or joining a support group.

• Practicing mindfulness or gentle exercise.

• Talking openly with family or healthcare providers.

Mental health is part of physical health. PHC’s providers treat the whole person — not just the lab numbers.

Type 2 diabetes happens when the body cannot use insulin correctly and sugar builds up in the blood. It was once called adult-onset diabetes.

Over time, high blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes can damage the eyes, kidneys, nerves and heart. This can happen because the pancreas doesn’t make enough of a hormone called insulin that helps sugar enter the cells. It happens also because the cells respond poorly to insulin by taking in less sugar.

Both type 1 and type 2 diabetes can begin during childhood and adulthood. Type 2 is more common in older adults. But the increase in the number of children with obesity has led to more young people with type 2 diabetes.

There’s no cure for type 2 diabetes. Losing weight, eating well and exercising can help manage the condition. If diet and exercise aren’t enough to manage blood sugar, diabetes medicines or insulin therapy may help.

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How PHC of Pinellas Supports Diabetes Care

At Professional Health Care of Pinellas, we take a proactive approach to diabetes prevention and management.
Our services include:

• Comprehensive blood-glucose and A1C testing

• Personalized nutrition counseling

• Medication management and insulin education

• Foot and eye screening coordination

• Chronic-disease management programs

• Preventive care and lifestyle coaching

Whether you’re newly diagnosed or managing long-term diabetes, our team partners with you to create a plan that fits your life and goals.

📍 Locations: Pinellas Park | Seminole | Largo | St. Petersburg
📞 Call us today: (727) 322-1054
💻 Book Online: phcpinellas.com

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What You Can Do This November

Here are simple ways to participate in Diabetes Awareness Month:

1. Schedule your annual screening — early detection is powerful.

2. Share awareness posts or infographics on social media.

3. Host a “Healthy Lunch Day” at work.

4. Encourage family walks after dinner.

5. Donate to organizations supporting diabetes research and care.

6. Wear blue on November 14 for World Diabetes Day.

Small actions create big waves of change.

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Key Takeaways

• Diabetes affects millions, but most cases of Type 2 diabetes are preventable.

• Early detection and lifestyle change are the strongest defenses.

• Consistent management prevents complications and enhances quality of life.

• Support and education strengthen both individuals and communities.

• This November, take steps toward a healthier, more mindful future.

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FAQs

Q: Can diabetes be reversed?
A: In some people with Type 2 diabetes, weight loss and consistent healthy habits can lead to remission, where blood sugar remains normal without medication. Always do this under medical supervision.

Q: How often should I get screened?
A: If you’re 45 or older — or younger with risk factors — test every 1–3 years. Those with prediabetes may need annual checks.

Q: What’s the best diet for diabetes?
A: There isn’t one universal plan. Focus on balanced meals rich in fiber, healthy fats, and lean protein. Avoid added sugars and refined carbs. A registered dietitian can personalize your plan.