Number of People with Diabetes Increases to 24 Million

June 24, 2008 -- Diabetes now affects nearly 24 million people in the United States, an increase of more than 3 million in approximately two years, according to new 2007 prevalence data estimates released today by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which provide estimates for every county in the US..Comment: How much of this is related to more overweight? How much is due to earlier diagnosis? How much is due to increased sensitivity of tests? How much is due to increased push for doctors to diagnose diabetes earlier? How much is due to improved access of Medicaid? Probably some or all. This is a disease which can be treated and for many people prevented, if we take rsponsiblity for our own behaviors.