Learning Objectives

After completion of this module students will be able to:

• Explain why the prevalence of diabetes is of epidemic proportions.
• Differentiate between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes and their harmful effects on the body.
• Describe ways to diagnose and treat diabetes.
• Describe the relationship between obesity and cardiovascular disease.
• Identify common cardiovascular diseases.
• Describe different types of cholesterol and their effects on the body.

Key Concepts - Diabetes

• Diabetes is a global epidemic that has increased dramatically in the last 10 years.
  An estimated 1 in 3 people is expected to be diagnosed with the disease by 2050.
• Glucose intolerance is characterized by abnormal blood sugars and utilization of carbohydrates. Glucose testing identifies individuals who are glucose intolerant.
• Pathology of diabetes differs in Type 1 and Type 2
• Diabetes complications are thought to be a “silent” killer.
• Risk factors of diabetes may be non-modifiable such as race or gender or modifiable such as diet or exercise.

Key Concepts - Cardiovascular Disease

• Cardiovascular disease (CVD) refers to any health problem that effects the heart or blood vessels.
• There are three types of atherosclerosis: heart disease, stroke, and limb loss which are all caused by blockages of key arteries.
• CVD is the leading cause of death for men and women. About 1 in 4 people will develop CVD. Someone dies from CVD every 34 seconds.
• Bad (LDL) cholesterol can cause clogged and narrow arteries and prevent blood flow carrying nutrients and oxygen.
• Metabolic syndrome and obesity doubles the risk of developing CVD.

Video Microlectures

• Video: Diabetes
  Dr. Nana Gletsu-Miller, Department of Nutrition Science, Purdue University

• Video: Cardiovascular Disease
  Dr. Kimberly K. Buhman, Department of Nutrition Science, Purdue University

Optional Readings

• Look AHEAD Research Group. (2014). Eight-year weight losses with an intensive life style intervention: the look AHEAD study. Obesity, 22, 5-13.
• Shashaj, B., Bedogni, G., Graziani, M. P., Tozzi, A. E., DiCorpo, M. L., Morano, D., ... & Manco, M. (2014). Origin of cardiovascular risk in overweight preschool children: a cohort study of cardiometabolic risk factors at the onset of obesity. JAMA pediatrics, 168, 917-924.