Diabetes report shows rising rates in Spokane County

Diabetes report shows rising rates in Spokane County Diabetes is a serious, chronic disease affecting more than 25,000 adults in Spokane County. In Spokane County diabetes is the seventh leading cause of death. The prevalence of diabetes continues to rise each year, making diabetes one of the most significant public health problems in our county. Diabetes now affects more than 1.4 million Washington residents according to the Washington State Department of Health. November is National Diabetes Prevention Month, drawing attention to the rise in this serious disease and focusing on diabetes prevention activities. 

The new report, developed by the Spokane Regional Health District's Assessment Program summarizes information on Spokane area diabetes issues, describes factors that contribute to our county's diabetes rate, and provides recommendations for reducing risks for this dangerous and costly disease. The Spokane Regional Health District works to promote and protect the health of all of Spokane County's residents. 

"The cost of diabetes to our community and nation is massive," said Cindy Green, program manager for the Spokane Regional Health District's Physical Activity and Nutrition Program. "There is an impact on the lives of the millions of people who live with this disease, our healthcare system, and our economy" 

Preventing diabetes and its complications is important to our community. Research has shown that maintaining a healthy weight or losing weight if needed, exercise, and healthy eating can prevent the onset of diabetes in adults and decrease or delay the complications of diabetes in those that have been diagnosed. 

The Health District is working to improve physical activity and nutrition in our community through community collaborations, policy development work and educational efforts. 

Media Contact: Julie Graham| 324-1539 JGraham@spokanecounty.org