ABSTRACT
Diabetes mellitus is diagnosed after fasting blood glucose greater than 120 mg/dl has been obtained. Better medical care and prevention or treatment of secondary complications of Type I diabetes, particularly end-stage renal disease and serious infections, have prolonged survival in these patients, so an increasing proportion of them are surviving into old age. Diabetes is the most common cause of blindness, amputations, and end-stage renal disease in the US adult population, and contributes significantly to coronary artery disease and peripheral vascular disease development. The National Diabetes Education Program is a broadbased effort directed toward the general public, patients, health care providers, and policy-makers. Longstanding diabetes may result in a proximal myopathy manifested as weakness and wasting of the upper leg and hip muscles and shoulder girdle muscles. Diabetic autonomic neuropathy may result in postural hypotension and orthostatic symptoms. Exercise should not be performed during acute exacerbations of diabetes that may occur due to illness, medication changes, or other causes.
