The obesity epidemic in the United States causes many negative consequences. Increased rates of cancer, heart disease and diabetes are all linked to obesity, and the rates for diabetes especially are expected to explode in the years to come.
A report from the Trust for America’s Health projects that obesity rates in the United States will grow to 44 percent by 2030. That is nearly four times the rate of 1990. Obesity often leads to diabetes and the Institute for Alternative Futures predicts that the number of people with the disease will grow to 53 million by 2025. That represents a growth of nearly 65 percent from 2010.
The overwhelming numbers mean that healthcare providers need to communicate the risks associated with diabetes to the general public. Diabetics need to seek immediate medical attention if they develop a wound. Ignoring a wound out of fear or even laziness may lead to an infection. If the infection is not properly treated or the patient continues to ignore it then it may lead to a diabetic amputation.
Amputation is a frightening enough prospect, but the loss of a limb can also led to further deterioration of a patient’s mental and physical health. As Americans’ waistlines grow so too does the risk of contracting a diabetic wound.
