Durham, N.C. - Diabetes is a growing health problem across our population. There's no clear cause and no known cure for the disease, which now affects more than 17 million people in the U.S. Diana McNeill, an endocrinologist at Duke University Medical Center, says most diabetes patients can live comfortably with the condition, and that it helps to follow some simple guidelines.

"Pay very close attention to diet, restricting carbohydrates and watching your weight. Always look at your feet every night before you go to bed and make sure you don't walk barefoot. Exercise regularly, but make sure that before you exercise you have discussed with your physician that it is a safe decision to exercise rigorously with regard to your heart and other medical problems."

As for medical tests, McNeill says it's essential to have your blood glucose and kidney function monitored regularly. Other health exams and procedures are also important.

"...good eye care, with at least a yearly eye exam. Make sure that your blood pressure is checked regularly. Get a yearly flu shot. Anything you can do to stay healthy and avoid infections if you have diabetes is very important."

I'm Cabell Smith for MedMinute.