Health for life

While researching the newer types of diabetes medications for my post on Incretin Enhancers, I came across a nice spreadsheet of the pills currently on the market. It was compiled by the American Diabetes Association and was erenced in their Resource Guide 2005.

It lists each drugs class, brand and generic name, and a short description.

Click the pic or the link below for the full chart (opens as a PDF file):

Oral Agents for Type 2

Throughout the world, foot problems are one of the most serious and costly complications of diabetes. Up to 70% of leg amputations are diabetes-related.

To increase awareness of diabetic foot complications, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) have devoted World Diabetes Day 2005 to this condition.

Nerve damage and inadequate blood supply are at the root of foot problems which can lead to dangerous ulcers. In fact, 85% of lower-body amputations are preceded by a foot ulcer. And in developed countries such as the US, 1 in 6 people with diabetes will have an ulcer during their lifetime.

The IDF has listed some warning signs of impending foot problems:

• Swelling of the foot or ankle
  
• Very cold feet or legs
  
• Color changes: red, blue or black discoloration
  
• Pain in legs at rest or while walking
  
• Open sores, no matter how small
  
• Non healing wounds
  
• In-growing toe nails
  
• Corns and calluses
  
• Lack of hair growth on the foot

For more information, visit the IDFs promotional site at World Diabetes Day 2005.