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What is Diabetes?

Educate Yourself

Prediabetes was previously known as "borderline diabetes." It usually consists of a fasting blood sugar between 100-126, but other tests can also determine diagnosis. Modest lifestyle changes can prevent or delay the progression of type 2 diabetes.

Diabetes is a progressive disease in which the body does not make enough insulin and does not properly respond to insulin. Diabetes occurs when blood glucose levels are too high. The American Diabetes Association diagnoses diabetes with as a fasting glucose of 126 mg/dL or more.

Type 1 was previously known as Juvenile Diabetes. It is an auto-immune disease in which the body attacks the cells in the pancreas, where insulin is produced, causing near or complete depletion of insulin.

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes and while it most often occurs in middle-age adults, more and more younger adults are developing diabetes. People with type 2 diabetes do not efficiently use insulin and may have very mild symptoms or none at all. It is usually diagnosed when symptoms are present and blood glucose levels are to high. By definition, diagnosis occurs when a fasting level is 126 or higher.

How We Can Help

Rex Diabetes Education Center is proud to be recognized by the American Diabetes Association for meeting the national standards for diabetes self-management education. The certified diabetes educators at Rex assist people in developing an individualized plan to managing the challenges that come with having diabetes. Individual consultations as well as a variety of classes and programs are available to assist people with managing diabetes. The multidisciplinary approach taken by our diabetes educators provide individuals with the means to develop goals and establish treatment plans as well as gain education and support for themselves and their loved ones.