Dear Ms. Deen (& Millions New to Type 2) – A Dose of Support, Tablespoons of Wisdom
Dear Ms. Deen:
Now that the dust has settled and the world knows you’ve had type 2 diabetes for a few years I want to offer you (and millions like you new to type 2 diabetes) a dose of support and words of wisdom as a diabetes educator and dietitian who, shall we say, has a few years under her belt.
First, let me encourage you to close your ears to all the advice (and criticism) you’ve received, free of charge, since coming out about your type 2. These “advisors” clearly don’t know much about YOUR diabetes, YOUR medical situation or, to be downright honest, much about type 2 diabetes and today’s treatments.
Second, let me offer you a virtual hug and pat on the back. Thank you for letting the world know about your type 2 diabetes. Too many people deny they have type 2 and remain in denial during the precious years in which taking action to slow down the disease progression is SO critical (more about that below).
Recaps of American Diabetes Association Meeting, 2012
In late June I attended the 2011 American Diabetes Association's Scientific Sessions (meeting). As usual, a fascinating learning experience. Over the years this meeting has become one that attracts scientists and health care providers from all over the world. Many stimulating and thought provoking meetings go on as well as an opportunity to explore new products and resources in a chock-full exhibit hall.
Rather than recreating additional recaps of this meeting, I'm pointing you to two detailed debriefs I've wrote for PRESENTdiabetes.com, the online continuing education community for healthcare professionals for which I'm the nutrition section editor:
Type 2 Diabetes: From Old Dogmas to New Realities – Part 2
Suffice to say, dramatic changes have occurred in our understanding of the onset and progression of prediabetes over the last decade. Lightening speed changes have also occurred regarding the therapies available to achieve optimal blood glucose control.
However, even with all of this change many old dogmas hang on. It’s time to be aware of the new realities. Here I’ve focused on two common old dogmas and the new realities.
Type 2 Diabetes: From Old Dogmas to New Realities – Part 1
Suffice to say, dramatic changes have occurred in our understanding of the onset and progression of prediabetes over the last decade. Lightening speed changes have also occurred regarding the therapies available to achieve optimal blood glucose control.
However, even with all of this change many old dogmas hang on. It’s time to be aware of the new realities. Here I’ve focused on two common old dogmas and the new realities.