Diabetes (Texas)
Diabetes is a group of diseases characterized by high levels of blood glucose resulting from defects in insulin production, insulin action, or both. Insulin is a cellular protein that regulates glucose levels in the blood.
- Type 1 Diabetes (Autoimmune Disease)
- Type 2 Diabetes (Metabolic Disease)
Human and Social Costs in Texas
Today, 2.2 million Texans have been diagnosed with the diabetes. About 8 million adult Texans, or 24% percent of the population, will be diagnosed with diabetes by 2040
Statewide, the number of adult Texans with diabetes is expected to jump 259% percent between 2010 and 2040. Williamson, Hays and Bastrop counties are expected to outpace the state in the rate of adults with diabetes. Projected increases according to a report from Texas Health Institute:
- Travis 220%
- Hays County 754%
- Williamson County 665%
- Bastrop counties 544%
- Caldwell counties 218%
Diabetes currently costs Texas $12.5 billion a year, according to the American Diabetes Association.
Direct medical expenses account for $8.1 billion, with an additional $4.4 billion in indirect costs, such as absenteeism, unemployment and reduced productivity.
Potential for Cures
An overwhelming majority of medical experts, medical organizations and patient advocacy groups agree that all types of stem cell research should be pursued. There is very strong support for all forms of stem cell research within a strong ethical framework.
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