Sen. Nybo now a member of the legislative Diabetes Caucus
State Sen. Chris Nybo (R-Elmhurst) is teaming with other state lawmakers as a member of the Illinois Legislative Diabetes Caucus to educate Illinois citizens about diabetes and its physical, public health and fiscal implications.
"I look forward to being a leading voice for the Illinois Legislative Diabetes Caucus. Two weeks ago, my 7-year-old daughter Olivia was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, and our family is learning about lifestyle changes she faces as an individual and the changes we face as a family," Nybo said. "These are the same types of challenges many families are going through every day."
Formed in April 2011, the Illinois Legislative Diabetes Caucus is a forum for legislators and affiliate members to learn about important public health issues regarding diabetes and to evaluate legislative issues that come before respective legislative chambers. It supports public policies and programs to improve the lives of those affected by diabetes and will work closely with advocates and stakeholders to create awareness for the detection, prevention and management of the disease.
In addition to joining the Caucus, the Nybo family will be sharing their "Touched by Type 1" story within the near future. "Touched by Type 1" is a series of family support groups who are dedicated to helping each other via email, monthly dinners, smaller get-togethers, and Facebook. If you would like to receive a copy of the Nybo family's "Touched by Type 1" story, please email chris@chrisnybo.org or call (630) 969-0990.
More than 8% of the population of Illinois has diabetes, according to recent studies. Type I diabetes is a condition in which the body's immune system destroys pancreatic cells responsible for the production of insulin. Type II diabetes is a condition characterized by high blood glucose levels caused by either a lack of insulin or the body's inability to use insulin efficiently. Type II diabetes accounts for approximately 90 to 95 percent of all diagnosed cases of diabetes in adults.
Nationally, the economic impact of pre-diabetes and diabetes has reached $218 billion. The cost in Illinois is anticipated to reach $19.5 billion by the year 2025.
Sen. Nybo says more information and links to valuable resources are available at the Caucus Web site at http://www.ilgadiabetes.com.