Diabetes Still Not Curable, But Research Continues On
Friday, January 8th, 2010Diabetes is not curable – at least with the knowledge we have so far. Nevertheless, researchers at the American Juvenile Diabetes Foundation continue to work on various ways to monitor and control the disease. As just a taste of the complications that diabetes can cause, over four million people are currently suffering from what is known as diabetic retinopathy.
Diabetic retinopathy is an illness that results in damage to the small blood vessels of the retina. The end result – blindness. With continuing research, it’s hoped that treatments will soon be developed that will lead to either preventing the disease entirely or, at least, a cure for it, if caught in time.
When not treated, diabetes causes glucose to accumulate in the bloodstream. This extra glucose, if left as a high enough level in the person’s blood stream can cause all sorts of damage to the major organs of the body, including the nervous system.
The potential problems that diabetes can cause is why the ever increasing number of cases of type two diabetes among teenagers is disquieting. It foreshadows a future where up to as many as a quarter or more of all adults could have diabetes. This could potentially result in medical bills in the billions of dollars, straining our current healthcare system past its breaking point.
Because of these factors, the diabetic research currently being performed in this country, as well as overseas, is even more important. In one sense, we’re racing against time to discover cures and treatments for the disease. But Although there’s no cure as of yet, researchers are constantly coming up with different and innovative ways to make life livable for those that do have diabetes.
Currently the only treatments for diabetes are going on a type two diabetes diet or prescription drugs. See diabetes diet guidelines for more info.
Disclaimer: The information on this website is intended for educational purposes only. It should not be used as a substitute for personal care by a licensed physician. Always see your physician for diagnosis and treatment of any concerning symptoms or medical condition.
