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| |  Type II Diabetes is Fourth Leading Cause of Death in African Americans BROOKLYN, New York—Dec. 30, 1996 -- Diabetes. The mention of this disease should put African Americans on the defensive. According to the American Diabetes Association, approximately 2.6 million African Americans have diabetes and half of them do not know that they have it. Diabetes is the fourth leading cause of death by disease in African Americans and it is estimated that one out of every four African American women over age 55 has this serious disease. Current research suggests that African American women are at an increased risk of developing type II (non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, NIDDM), or adult-onset diabetes. Uncontrollable factors such as age, a family history of diabetes, or having had gestational diabetes while pregnant are factors that women cannot control. However, maintaining a healthier lifestyle through regular physical activity and a nutritious diet can greatly reduce the risk factors for diabetes. It has been observed that African American women have twice the rate of obesity as white women which may explain why type II diabetes is so prevalent in the African American population. An individual who is above her healthy body weight and who has a family history of diabetes is at increased risk of developing adult-onset diabetes. Maintaining a diet high complex carbohydrates, with 30 percent or less of calories from fat and 10 to 15 percent calories from protein is currently being advocated by the American Dietetic Association. This, combined with regular physical activity greatly reduces diabetes risk. To help consumers assess their risk of diabetes and to offer them healthy alternatives to their favorite recipes, the makers of Sweet'N Low(R) brand sugar substitute have created 'Taking Charge: Diabetes and the African American Woman.' This booklet offers an overview of current research, risk factors, prevention and management of adult-onset diabetes. The booklet stresses a healthier lifestyle through moderate exercise and a nutritious diet and offers three delicious reduced-calorie, lowfat recipes-Pineapple-Cabbage Slaw, Sweet Potato and Apple Bake, and Baked Chicken Breasts with Spicy Barbecue Sauce. For a free copy of 'Taking Charge: Diabetes and the African American Woman' send a self-addressed, stamped ($.55), business envelope to Sweet N' Low(R), P.O. Box 18485, Sarasota, Fla. 34276.
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