By DANIEL GRAY
Director, Kosciusko County Tobacco Free Coalition

KOSCIUSKO COUNTY — Diabetes is one of the leading causes of death in Indiana, and the 2014 Surgeon General Report on Smoking found that cigarette smoking is a cause of type 2 diabetes, also known as adult-onset diabetes. Smoking increases the risk for diabetes by up to 40 percent and the risk increases the more cigarettes a person smokes.

Smoking is also detrimental to people who are already diabetic. A person with diabetes who smokes is more likely to have trouble regulating insulin and controlling the disease than nonsmokers with diabetes. Those who smoke and have diabetes are also more likely to have serious health problems.

Tobacco use damages blood vessels throughout the body. People with diabetes who smoke are 11 times more likely to have a heart attack or stroke than people who do not have diabetes and do not smoke. Tobacco use also increases the risk of nerve damage. This can result in impotence in men, digestion problems and loss of feeling in the feet. There is also a risk of blindness and an increased chance for tooth decay.

The health benefits of quitting smoking can begin right away in diabetics. In just eight weeks after quitting, studies have shown that insulin can start to become more effective at lowering blood sugar levels.

During November, American Diabetes Month supports the millions of Americans impacted by this disease. It can also raise awareness for the risk factors, such as smoking, that can lead to diabetes.

Those who want to quit smoking can call (800) QUIT-NOW, click here or contact Dan at (260) 571-2464 or [email protected].