Letters to the Editor

Letter: Diabetes risks

As a physician with a practice in endocrinology for 37 years in Anchorage. I wanted to address a concern in regard to the COVID-19 virus. Most of the patients in my practice have the diagnosis of diabetes mellitus. 

During the last few months, the media has reminded us daily of the risks of severe complications and death from COVID-19 in the diabetic population.

People with poorly controlled diabetes already have a higher risk of death from a variety of co-morbidities including heart disease and peripheral vascular disease than the general population. While not denying the added risk of COVID-19 to diabetics, it needs to be placed in its proper perspective. 

I encourage the proper use of guidelines to minimize the spread of the virus, but the vast majority of patients are far more likely to die from poorly controlled diabetes complications unrelated to the virus. Patients with diabetes need to focus on proper diet, regular physical activity and adherence to diabetes medicines prescribed by their physicians to control their diabetes as they take preventive measures from the virus. 

I applaud all medical professionals who stand ready, able and willing to help patients through this difficult time. Following these steps will provide patients with their best defense against this virus, as well as the greater threat of complications from diabetes. 

Patrick M. Nolan, D.O., F.A.C.P., F.A.C.E.

Anchorage

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