According to the International Diabetes Federation, the number of people suffering from diabetes around the world has risen from 30 million to an astounding 230 million in the last 2 decades with 7 of the 10 countries with the highest number of diabetics being in the developing world.
There are many factors driving the growth in diabetes worldwide, but most experts agree that changes in lifestyle and diet are the chief culprits, in addition to genetic predisposition. As developing countries rapidly industrialize, people tend to do work involving less physical activity. At the same time, the availability of food that is cheap but high in calories becomes more common.
The combination causes weight gain, which leads to greater risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, the most common form of the disease.
-Via New York Times
The best way to counter this rapidly spreading disease, (especially the Type 2 - or adult onset - variety) is to spread the word about healthful eating habits in your circle of influence. Together, we can all help reduce the occurence of diabetes.
Technorati Tags: health, fitness, nutrition, diabetes
