African American Population, Research Paper Example

For this assignment, I selected to study the African American population due to the prevalence of diabetes in this group. As a consequence, it is essential to inform this group ways in which they can properly manage the disease, how and when to take medication specific to diabetes, how to safely engage in exercise to prevent incidence and severity of the illness, diet plans, and how frequently and when they should consult their physician.

To manage diabetes, an individual needs to be able to adequately track their A1C, (blood sugar levels over three months), and aim to prevent these numbers from getting too high because this could cause physiological damage. Checking blood pressure and cholesterol levels are also essential for these same reasons. Medication can be a useful part of ensuring that blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels don’t raise too high if an individual has a difficult time controlling them by lifestyle changes alone (NIH, n.d.). People who exercise regularly have a decreased risk of becoming diabetic. Furthermore, exercise helps people use insulin more readily, so exercise is effective in disease maintenance even after diagnosis. Nutrition is equally as important in maintaining the disease because making healthier food choices decreases the likelihood of physiological complications. This includes switching from food options with low fiber to high fiber alternatives, eating reduced amounts of sugar, and eating food regularly and when feeling dizzy. Many doctors also recommend that fat intake be limited and a food diary be kept so the individual can assess what is making them sick and strive for a better diet. It is recommended that individuals with diabetes visit their physicians monthly to ensure adequate control of symptoms. If symptoms worsen however, diabetics should visit their doctor sooner to prevent against any bodily damage (Help Guide, n.d.).

References

Help Guide. (n.d.). More Frequent Doctor Visits May Benefit Diabetes Patients. Retrieved from             http://consumer.healthday.com/cardiovascular-and-health-information-20/dietary-choloesterol-news-130/more-frequent-doctor-visits-may-benefit-diabetes-patients-657201.html

NIH. (n.d.). 4 Steps to Manage Your Diabetes for Life. Retrieved from             http://ndep.nih.gov/publications/PublicationDetail.aspx?PubId=4