When dealing with a chronic medical condition like diabetes, diligence and preparation are key.
JACKSONVILLE, Fla., June 14, 2021 -- The American Association of Clinical Endocrinology (AACE), a professional community of health care providers specializing in endocrinology, diabetes, and metabolic disorders, is raising awareness about diabetes emergency preparedness. More than 34 million Americans have diabetes, which equals about 10.5% of the country’s population. (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2020). While emergency situations are stressful and challenging for anyone, they can be potentially life-threatening to a person with a chronic medical disease such as diabetes. Unexpected natural disasters such as a hurricanes, floods, earthquakes, fires, tornados, and even unforeseen situations of dealing with an auto breakdown can occur at any given moment. That’s why AACE has launched the My Diabetes Emergency Plan campaign to raise awareness about diabetes preparedness.
AACE’s My Diabetes Emergency Plan is a convenient checklist that contains all of the essential items those with diabetes need to have readily available in the event of an emergency. The checklist contains a detailed list of medical information, medications, supplies, food, water, and other lifesaving items that a diabetic person or their support circle could administer in the event of a diabetic episode. The checklist is available in English or Spanish, and can be downloaded for free here. A step-by-step video is also available as a guide for how to put together a diabetes emergency kit at home, and can be watched here.
People with diabetes are at higher risk of various other conditions (often called complications) due to the damaging effects of the disease on blood vessels. Managing diabetes is key for preventing or delaying these complications, especially in the event of an emergency where it may be challenging to get medical attention right away. Emergencies can strike at any time, whether it’s a natural disaster, car trouble, or a global pandemic, and can even result in people having to evacuate their homes. Preparing a diabetes emergency kit ahead of time and storing it in an easy to travel container, can make all the difference for a diabetic person.
When dealing with a chronic medical condition like diabetes, diligence and preparation are key. Visit My Diabetes Emergency Plan for the full checklist.
About the American Association of Clinical Endocrinology (AACE)
Established in 1991, The American Association of Clinical Endocrinology is a global, inclusive community of over 5,000 endocrine-focused clinical members, affiliates, and partners from every walk of professional life. As the vital hub of knowledge and experience in clinical endocrinology, AACE works to define the best paths of patient care and disease prevention, educate multi-disciplinary care teams and their patients, and set the factual record straight about endocrine diseases. Together, the AACE community is elevating the practice of clinical endocrinology to benefit each individual patient and the health of our society. Visit our website at www.aace.com.