The Centers for Disease Control has released a new outline where diabetes is particularly prevalent in the United States.  They have dubbed it…The Diabetes Belt. “The Belt” spans across the South, from Tennessee to West Virginia, Louisiana to Georgia, including parts of Northern Florida.  Jacksonville lies just outside of the Diabetes Belt.   While diabetes is clearly a severe problem in other parts of the country, Jacksonville has much room for improvement as well. While the study does not distinguish between Type 1 (juvenile onset) and Type 2 (adult onset) diabetes, 90% of all diabetics are Type 2. Factors affecting this include:

• Genetics
• Diet
• Lack of exercise

Different counties within the Diabetes Belt also have higher incidence of strokes. This association is not surprising, as diabetes is associated with cardiovascular disease. The same disease process which leads to strokes, also leads to diseases of the blood vessels in the foot. Unfortunately the diabetic foot has poor circulation, taking it longer for wounds to heal.  This is where Dr. Vimal Reddy at the First Coast Foot and Ankle Clinic can help. As a podiatrist, Dr. Reddy is better equipped than doctors of other specialty to address problems that arise in the feet.