Diabetes remains a significant health concern in Texas, with physicians from the Texas Medical Association (TMA) highlighting the risks of undiagnosed and unmanaged cases during National Diabetes Awareness Month. According to Brandon Cantazaro, MD, an internist and member of TMA’s Council on Health Promotion, many individuals are unaware they have diabetes until complications arise. He notes that nerve damage often leads to loss of sensation in limbs as an early sign.
Dr. Cantazaro practices in the Rio Grande Valley, where diabetes rates are among the highest in the country—affecting 26% of people compared to just under 12% nationally. In Texas alone, 2.9 million residents live with diabetes, representing more than one in ten adults.
Jayesh “Jay” Shah, MD, a wound care specialist in San Antonio and president of TMA, regularly treats patients facing severe consequences such as end-stage kidney disease and limb amputations due to poor circulation and unhealed wounds. “Some of the most unfortunate end-stage complications of diabetes [include] end-stage kidney disease, having no circulation in the limbs, patients getting amputations, and patients having trouble with healing,” said Dr. Shah.
The effects can be especially difficult for families when young adults become disabled by diabetes-related complications. “A lot of these patients are young with a young family, and it really is very devastating for these families to have their breadwinner getting disabled because of diabetes,” Dr. Shah added.
Both Drs. Shah and Cantazaro recommend that individuals who are overweight or have a family history or higher ethnic risk factors should consult their physician about testing for diabetes. Gestational diabetes also affects up to 9% of pregnancies annually across the United States; regular screening can help manage this condition effectively.
While type 2 diabetes is associated with numerous health issues, both physicians emphasize that lifestyle changes combined with medical care can help prevent or reduce complications. “Having the discipline of making sure you are following a healthy diet, you are taking the medication as prescribed by your doctor, and you are exercising—you can control diabetes and even reverse some of the conditions,” said Dr. Shah.
Dr. Cantazaro encourages gradual adjustments: “You can start making small changes over time, little by little.” He shared examples from his practice where incremental steps—such as reducing sugary drinks or increasing physical activity—helped patients lower blood sugar levels significantly over several months.
He acknowledges that managing diabetes alone may feel overwhelming but offers reassurance: “It is not your identity. With support and small lifestyle changes, you can live a long, healthy, and active life.”
