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Show Hospital promotes diabetes awareness One out of every four families in the United States is affected by diabetes. Of the approximately 80,000 people in Utah who have diabetes, only half of the victims know that they even have the disease. During National Diabetes Month, American Fork Hospital will be offering free diabetic screenings and handouts, Oct. 22, from 8-10 a.m. in the hospital board room. The hospital hopes to promote awareness of a disease that is highly misunderstood and largely ignored until it strikes. Participants are asked lo fast for 12 hours prior to the screening, for more accurate blood sugar results. Testing involves a finger "stick" and lasts about five minutes. When the body does not produce or properly use insulin, the resulting hormonal imbalance can be a mjaor factor contributing to heart disease, blindness and kidney trouble. Warning signs include: frequent urination extreme hunger easy tiring, fatigue and weakness blurred vision or any change in sight frequent skin infections slow healing cutsbruises unusual thirsl rapid weight loss irritability, nausea and vomiting tingling or numbness in legs, feet or fingers itchy skin drowsiness Anyone with a family history of diabetes, or exhibiting any of these symptoms, should be tested for diabetes. Glucose testing can be done at the AFH lab without a doctor's order. Results are phoned to the patient the same day and a copy of the lest is sent to the physician of choice. |