Diabetes

Diabetes is one of the most prevalent diseases in Baja California Sur; during 2002, 10,885 new cases were diagnosed in the state.  Diabetes can compromise vital organs, such as the kidneys, provoking visual disability, inhibition of blood circulation, problems with blood coagulation, and the loss of extremities, in addition to high blood pressure. 

In Baja California Sur and throughout Mexico, diabetes is the result of a basic diet that is rich in carbohydrates and sugars, combined with a general lack of physical activity.  Diabetes is also linked to long-term arsenic ingestion, which has been located in groundwater wells in 34 communities around the state (also discussed in the environment section).  The state health sector covers diabetes treatment, but an emphasis on prevention could be an effective way to curb the high incidence of new cases in the state.  Considering its health impacts, prevention of diabetes, could be seen as prevention of a host of other health-related problems. 

Programs have been implemented by the IMSS, as well as through nonprofits, including training courses on cooking and baking for diabetics, disease characteristics, arterial hypertension, first aid, and sexual health, so that family members will be able to offer in-home support and more integrated attention to patients.[1]