Most people know someone with diabetes. Over 23 million Americans (approximately 7.8% of the population) have diabetes. Diabetes is a serious, lifelong condition. Diabetes occurs when the body cannot regulate blood sugars.

There are two types of diabetes:

• Type 1 diabetes is usually diagnosed in children and young adults, and was previously known as juvenile diabetes. All Type 1 diabetics require life-long insulin shots.
  
  
• Type 2 is the most common form of diabetes. About 90 to 95 percent of people with diabetes have this type of diabetes. While millions have been diagnosed with this disease, many more are unaware that they are at high risk.
  
  Risk factors for Type 2 Diabetes can include: older age, obesity, gestational diabetes, family history of Type 2 Diabetes, physical inactivity, hypertension, cholesterol problems, cardiovascular disease, polycystic ovary syndrome, and certain ethnic groups (black, Hispanic or Native American ancestry).
  
  Symptoms prior to diagnosis can include: blurred vision, fatigue, increased urination, thirst and appetite, unexplained weight loss, erectile dysfunction, and urinary tract or yeast infections.

Adults with diabetes are at high risk for complications such as heart disease, stroke, kidney problems and nerve damage. Managing this condition through healthy eating, physical activity, and the use of medications is important to help control diabetes. Medications are being studied that may lower the risks associated with diabetes.

Summit Research Network participates in research studies of investigational medication for diabetes. If you are selected, all research-related care and study medications will be provided at no cost. If you would like more information, please call us at (206) 292-CARE (2273), or fill out the form below and we will contact you.