In honor of Diabetes Awareness Month, Makom Clinical Services dietician Adeline Asani-Uva shed light on the impact of diabetes on people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Find below her statement. 

Diabetes Awareness Month

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the global number of individuals living with diabetes increased dramatically from 200 million in 1990 to 830 million in 2022.

Diabetes Mellitus (DM) remains one of the most prevalent chronic health conditions among adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs). Compared with the general population, adults with IDDs experience significantly higher rates of both diabetes incidence and prevalence, particularly as they age.

In the United States, approximately one in six individuals with IDDs has been diagnosed with diabetes, compared to one in fourteen in the general population. As this population ages, barriers to accessing routine preventive care and early screening for chronic diseases often increase, contributing to delayed diagnoses and poorer health outcomes.

When diabetes is undetected or inadequately managed, it can result in serious and potentially life-threatening complications affecting multiple organ systems. These complications include cardiovascular disease, kidney and liver damage, neuropathy, digestive disorders, foot problems (including amputations), bone fragility, and mental health challenges.

Health Impacts of Diabetes Among Individuals with IDDs

• Development of secondary complications
• Increased hospital admissions and prolonged lengths of stay
• Reduced overall quality of life
• Elevated healthcare costs
• Challenges in recognizing, communicating, and managing pain

Nutrition and Diabetes Management

Nutritional intervention plays a critical role in the prevention, delay, and management of diabetes. Evidence-based dietary approaches emphasize a balanced eating pattern rich in whole foods, with a focus on vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats, while limiting processed foods and added sugars.

The Role of the Registered Dietitian

Registered Dietitians (RDs) are integral members of the interdisciplinary healthcare team in diabetes management. Their expertise supports individuals in achieving and maintaining optimal health outcomes through:

• Developing culturally sensitive and individualized meal plans that align with personal preferences, medications, and physical activity levels
• Supporting blood glucose and weight management through tailored nutrition strategies
• Providing continuous monitoring, education, and emotional support, while collaborating with medical professionals to ensure coordinated, person-centered care.