L.A.’s diabetes epidemic gets worse

Diabetes in Los Angeles has hit an all-time high, with a new public health report showing that 9.1% of adults have Type 2 diabetes, which usually is caused by obesity.

The report covers the years from 1997, when the figure was 6.6%, to 2007.

“It is unacceptable that so many people are suffering from a disease that, in most cases, can be prevented or controlled,” said Dr. Jonathan E. Fielding, the county’s director of public health. “Exercising regularly, making healthy eating choices and controlling or reducing weight can help prevent, control or even reverse diabetes.”

In a press release, Fielding noted that diabetes is the 6th leading cause of death in the county and a contributor to the No. 1 killer, cardiovascular disease.

The report, Trends in Diabetes: A Reversible Public Health Crisis, was issued in conjunction with the American Diabetes Association of Los Angeles.

County health officials will take part in the diabetes association’s “Feria de Salud” on Olvera Street in Downtown Los Angeles. The event will take place on Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Posted 11/4/10