JMU expert available to discuss diabetes causes, prevention 

HARRISONBURG, Va. — More than 38 million Americans have diabetes and one in five don’t know they have it, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. More than 90% of people with diabetes have Type 2, the preventable form of the disease, the CDC states. 

During National Diabetes Awareness Month, James Madison University researcher Biswadeep Dhar is available to discuss causes and prevention. 

An expert on interventions for chronic disease prevention, Dhar said there are many reasons for the high number of diabetes cases, both social and economic. 

“These include lifestyle factors, genetic factors, psychological stress, and the affordability and accessibility of fresh fruits, vegetables and proper health care,” Dhar said. 

Many people from high-risk populations, including lower-income families, “live in food deserts where high-calorie fast food is more readily available than healthy, nutritious food,” Dhar said. Others are susceptible due to genetic factors such as insulin resistance and impaired insulin secretion. 

Psychological stress can also play a role. “For example, perceived discrimination increases stress, lowers self-care behaviors, and ultimately negatively impacts health and blood glucose control. This perceived discrimination also negatively influences financial well-being and increases the financial burden,” Dhar said. 

The most effective way to prevent Type 2 diabetes—a chronic metabolic disorder in which the body doesn’t use insulin properly, leading to high blood sugar—is to stop it before it starts, Dhar said. “Programs that focus on healthy lifestyle changes, like eating a balanced diet and getting regular physical activity, are considered the gold standard.” 

One proven example, he said, is the National Diabetes Prevention Program, a CDC-recognized initiative. Research shows that people at risk for diabetes who take part in this kind of structured program can cut their chances of developing the disease by about 58%. These programs work because they help people build long-term habits that keep blood sugar levels in check and reduce overall risk. 

Dhar can also discuss the financial costs of caring for diabetes. 

To schedule an interview with Dhar, contact Eric Gorton at gortonej@jmu.edu.