Diabetes

Diabetes mellitus is a group of diseases characterized by high levels of blood glucose resulting from defects in insulin production, insulin action, or both. Diabetes can be associated with serious complications and premature death, but PAs can take steps to help people with diabetes control the disease and lower the risk of complications.

AAPA Policy

AAPA does not have specific policy on diabetes but does have policy on stemming the epidemic of obesity which has been closely linked to increasing rates of diabetes.

Physician assistants are encouraged to address the issues of healthy weight as a component of health promotion.

The American Academy of Physician Assistants (AAPA) encourages PAs to take a leadership role in prevention and early recognition of pediatric obesity as well as identifying and treating obesity related co-morbidities. PAs are urged to participate in collaborative efforts with public health organizations and federal agencies to prevent pediatric obesity in our communities.

The AAPA encourages the PA profession to combat the epidemic of childhood obesity by improved nutritional education in schools, expanded physical education and exercise programs. The Academy supports physician assistants in their efforts to provide leadership in schools promoting healthy lifestyles for our nation’s children.

The Academy encourages educating physician assistants about the prevention and management of being overweight and obese. Additionally, the AAPA encourages national efforts to educate the public about the health risks of being overweight and obese. AAPA encourages all physician assistants and patients to maintain a desired weight and prevent inappropriate weight gain.