That is why I am working with the American Diabetes Association (ADA ) to promote November as "National Diabetes Month."

Diabetes puts millions of Americans at risk for more deadly diseases and is a leading cause of heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, blindness and lower limb amputation. It is also the fifth leading cause of death by disease in the United States. Diabetes is also a very costly disease. One out of every 10 health care dollars is spent on diabetes and its complications, and according to the most recent estimates by the ADA, the direct and indirect economic cost of diabetes totals $ 132 million.

Those of us who don't suffer from diabetes most likely know someone - a relative, a friend, a co-worker - who does. While there currently is no cure for diabetes, with proper treatment, Arkansans can prevent the disease's serious complications and live healthy, productive lives.

Several factors put people at a higher risk for diabetes. Approximately half of all diabetes cases, also known as type 2 diabetes, occur in people older than 55 years of age. Minorities also face an increased risk of developing diabetes. Other risk factors include a family history of diabetes, excess weight, lack of regular exercise and high blood pressure.

In addition, approximately 176, 500 young people age 20 and under suffer from type 1 diabetes, also known as juvenile diabetes.

As co-chair of the Senate Diabetes Caucus, I have worked to build support in Congress to increase funding for diabetes research as well as for glucose monitoring technologies. During National Diabetes Month, I strongly encourage anyone who is at risk to take steps early to help prevent the disease. Seeing your doctor and getting a physical is the best way to determine your risk for developing diabetes. Anyone who is at risk should take a diabetes risk test, get early access to quality treatment and make healthy choices like eating right and staying active.

Arkansans also can reach out to the American Diabetes Association, the nation's leading voluntary health organization supporting diabetes research, information and advocacy, by calling 1-800-DIABETES (1-800-342-2383 ) or visiting their Web site www.diabetes.org.

Diabetes is an epidemic in this country, but together we can fight this disease and improve the lives of those who suffer from it.

U. S. Sen. Blanche Lincoln can be contacted in Washington, D. C. at (202 ) 224-4843, or in her Arkansas office at (800 ) 352-9364.

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