The prevalence of type 2 diabetes is rising rapidly and is striking people at much younger ages, according to a just-published study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• Researchers looked at data from 1990 and 1998 and found that the overall rate of diabetes increased 33% during that time

• Even more significant was the finding that the rate of diabetes among people in their 30s increased nearly 70%.

• Researchers found increased rates among all ages, races, and educational levels.

According to endocrinologist Frank Vinicor of the CDC "We're seeing the greatest increase in obesity and lack of physical activity" in people in their 30's, so therefore it is not surprising to find the 70% increase in just 8 years. "We are now beginning to see the consequences of physical inactivity and weight gain that go well beyond feeling good about yourself or cosmetic issues."

The following is a summary of their findings for the percent of the total poulation that has been diagnosed with diabetes:

• Caucasian
  1990 - 4.6%
  1998 - 5.9%

• African-American
  1990 - 7.0%
  1998 -8.9%

• Hispanic
  1990 - 5.6%
  1998 - 7.7%

The researchers also note that their results probably significantly underestimate the percentage of people with diabetes, since it is not uncommon for the disorder to be present for as long as 12 years before being properly diagnosed.

Diabetes Care September, 2000, as reported by Anita Manning, USA Today, August 24, 2000