Column: Diabetes and weight loss medications - separating myths from facts

Most of us know someone who has been affected by diabetes. It can lead to severe health problems, such as eye problems, nerve damage, gum disease, heart disease, kidney damage, stroke, and lower-limb amputations. As we acknowledge National Diabetes Month this November, here are some facts to consider if you or a loved one might be at risk of this long-term disease.

Myth: Diabetes only affects older people.

Diabetes doesn’t discriminate. While young people are more likely to get type 1 diabetes, cases of type 2 diabetes are on the rise, especially among young people.

Myth: There are two types of diabetes.

There are three types of diabetes: type 1, type 2, and gestational. Type 1, an autoimmune disease, occurs when the body attacks the cells in your pancreas so they cannot produce insulin. Type 2 occurs when your cells are unable to process sugar due to decreased sensitivity to insulin. The third type, gestational diabetes, occurs when a pregnant woman’s blood sugar levels are higher than normal.

Myth: Diabetes is inevitable with my family history and there is no way to prevent it.

Being overweight and not getting exercise make it more likely that you will get type 2 diabetes. Many of the health problems associated with diabetes can be prevented by losing weight and being more physically active. These actions help keep your blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels under control.

Myth: If I don’t have diabetes, it is not something to worry about.

Diabetes is the seventh leading cause of death in the U.S. More than 9 out of 10 people with diabetes have type 2 diabetes. While millions of Americans are diagnosed with diabetes, there are millions more who don’t know they have it.

Myth: My dentist will know if I have diabetes.

It’s true that gum disease is a sign of diabetes, but some people have no or mild symptoms of type 2 diabetes. Some common symptoms that can occur include skin infections that don't heal easily, fatigue and drowsiness, and dry, itchy skin. Other early concerns may include sexual dysfunction, needing to pee (urinate) often, and tingling or loss of feeling in the hands or feet.

Myth: Insulin is the only medication to treat diabetes.

Insulin helps the body use or store the blood sugar it gets from food. While insulin can help manage diabetes, weight loss medications and exercise can help treat and manage this long-term disease.

Myth: GLP-1 medications are a quick fix for diabetes.

GLP-1 medications, like semaglutide (Ozempic) or tirzepatide (Mounjaro), can help control blood sugar and promote weight loss for people with type 2 diabetes, but they are just one part of a comprehensive diabetes management plan that includes lifestyle changes. The FDA hasn’t approved GLP-1s for the treatment of type 1 diabetes, but researchers are studying this now.

Myth: GLP-1 medications are only prescribed for people with diabetes.

Healthcare providers may prescribe specific GLP-1 medications to treat obesity or assist individuals who are overweight and facing related health issues, especially when weight loss could improve those conditions. These medications are just one component of a comprehensive weight loss plan, which often includes dietary changes, exercise, and behavioral modification programs.

For many, symptoms of diabetes may be confused with normal signs of aging. Many Americans don’t know they have it which is why it’s important to have regular wellness screenings and to be familiar with ways to prevent, identify, and treat this chronic disease.

Kelly Vial, FNP-C is a family medicine nurse practitioner who sees patients of all ages at Barton Community Health Center. On November 14 at 5 p.m., she will be giving a free wellness webinar on “Lifestyle Modifications and Medications for Weight Loss” that can help assist with diabetes management. Register and get more information at BartonHealth.org/Lecture.