A condition known as pre-diabetes can mean diabetes is on the horizon—or it can be a valuable wake-up call. The Kirklin Clinic^® at UAB offers a diabetes prevention class each month, including information on healthy eating and diet planning. The cost is $45. For more information, please call 801-8711.

Of the 15.7 million Americans with diabetes, more than half are women. The vast majority of these women have type 2 diabetes, which usually develops after age 40. It’s most common in minorities and people who are overweight or inactive.

Having type 2 diabetes means you have high blood sugar. Think you might have it? Some of the most common signs are:

• feeling tired
• having an upset stomach
• urinating frequently
• being unusually thirsty
• losing weight
• having sores that are slow to heal
• getting a lot of infections.

Concerned about type 2 diabetes? Talk to your doctor. This condition can be serious, so don’t ignore the possible signs.

If you develop type 2 diabetes, healthy habits can help you avoid complications. Eat right, exercise regularly, and take medicine to control your blood sugar.