The prevalence of diabetes in adult Iowans showed a decline from 2014 to 2015 according to the Iowa Department of Public Health.

The rate fell from 9.5% to 8.8% being told by a physician that they have diabetes. This excluded women told only during pregnancy. Diabetic educator with Washington County Hospital and Clinics Amy Martin shares Type 1 diabetes usually happens in younger people, and “something happens that just attacks their pancreas and it stops working. People with Type 1 diabetes have to be on insulin to survive.” Martin explains Type 2 diabetes is most common and is usually a gradual onset, where their body doesn’t make enough insulin.

According to IDPH, 36% of Iowans with diabetes reported they were currently taking insulin. An annual survey done by the department showed the rate of diabetes higher among those 65-74 years old and those with less than a high school diploma in education. WCHC is hosting a free diabetes technology fair on Wednesday 5:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesday.