TAHLEQUAH — Diabetes has reached epidemic proportions among Native Americans, and complications from diabetes are major causes of death and health problems in most Native American populations. Because of this, Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chad Smith has declared November as Diabetes Awareness Month. 

“Cherokees are at high risk for the development of diabetes, and it affects not only the individual but the whole family,” Smith said. “The Cherokee Nation is committed to the well-being and health of Cherokee citizens and helping improve their quality and years of life. We hope that teaching our people about how to prevent and manage diabetes will lead to healthier families across Cherokee Nation.”

Diabetes is a disease that affects the body’s ability to convert sugars, starches and other food into energy. It is estimated that more than 23 million Americans are affected by the disease, and that nearly 6 million people are not aware they have it. In the Cherokee Nation, there are nearly 5,000 patients in the tribe’s Diabetes Registry.

Native Americans are at particular risk for diabetes, and in 2007 just over 38 percent of the diagnosis of patients treated at the tribe’s health centers were in relation to the disease. The Cherokee Nation spends an average of $6.5 million annually in the diabetes program which offers a team approach to care, including intensive case management, podiatry services, primary prevention activities and self-management instruction.

For more information on the Cherokee Nation Diabetes Prevention Program, contact Tonya Giger at 453-5776.