November is American Diabetes Month, aimed at raising awareness for the disease that causes complications for millions of people.
According to the American Diabetes Association:
- Nearly 30 million children and adults in the U.S. have diabetes
- 86 million Americans have prediabetes and are at risk for developing type 2 diabetes
- The total national cost of diagnosed diabetes in the U.S. is $245 billion
Diabetes can cause people to miss extended periods of work as they seek medical treatment. Sadly, this treatment can include amputation—reports indicate that there were 2.4 leg amputation procedures for every 1,000 Medicare beneficiaries with diabetes and peripheral artery disease nationally between 2007 and 2011.
Awareness is important, as some forms of diabetes can be avoided through proper nutrition and exercise. Obesity is a major factor in type 2 diabetes diagnoses in America, as people are genetically predisposed to disease or may have issues with weight control.
Symptoms of diabetes include excess thirst, frequent urination and constant hunger. As an adult, it is important that you schedule physicals yearly and have blood screenings performed to check for disorders like diabetes.
Treatment for diabetes includes medications such as metformin or insulin to avoid amputations and other complications, in addition to diet and exercise.
Can I Collect SSDI If I Have Diabetes?
If you suffer from diabetes and it leaves you unable to work, you should be aware that you might be eligible to collect Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). This is especially true of you have lost a limb due to the disease or have cardiovascular problems.
To collect benefits, you must show that your condition is severe. If you have questions about SSDI eligibility requirements, you can visit our Social Security FAQ page.
