DAYTON — Doctors diagnose 1.4 million Americans with diabetes every year, according to the American Diabetes Association.
April is Minority Health Month.
According to the Food and Drug Association, racial and ethnic minorities have a higher burden of diabetes and are more likely to experience complications.
Elois McCray, 67 years old, was diagnosed with diabetes about a month ago and said she missed all the signs.
That’s why she wants to share her story and educate others.
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“When I first realized what was going on with me I was dizzy, the room was spinning,” McCray said.
She said she knew she should be exercising and trying to eat better.
Diabetes runs in her family, her father had it too.
“We didn’t talk about it and I came home and saw he was maybe using equal,” she said.
Tambra Samuels, a registered nurse and diabetes educator said people will live with symptoms for months before getting help.
“Denial is huge,” Samuels said.
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Samuels said Native Americans and Alaskan Natives are the minority communities most affected by diabetes, followed by African Americans.
She said genetics play a big part but factors like weight, high blood pressure and aging can also play a part.
McCray has said since her diagnosis of high blood pressure and diabetes she has made exercising a priority.
“Take your health in your own hands. You can determine the route that you take, had I kept my eyes on it I think I could have gone a lot longer,” she said.
Along with education, doctors say it’s important to eat a healthy diet and exercise to help prevent diabetes.
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