November is National Diabetes Awareness Month, and Meharry Medical College doctors are helping to spread awareness about prevention, symptoms, and the importance of regular screenings.
Dr. Tiwa Awosanya, an endocrinologist and internal medicine physician at Meharry Medical Group, and Dr. Lawrence Burns, a podiatrist and associate professor, joined Nick Beres on NewsChannel 5+ MorningLine to discuss diabetes, its impact in Tennessee, and steps individuals can take to manage or prevent the disease.
When asked about the differences between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, Dr. Awosanya explained that both can have genetic factors, but lifestyle plays a key role in Type 2.
“We classify risk factors as modifiable and non-modifiable,” she said. “Genetics can’t be changed, that’s non-modifiable. But factors such as weight and body mass index are modifiable. Still, diabetes doesn’t discriminate. Regardless of your BMI, you can still have Type 2 diabetes.”
Dr. Awosanya noted that 38 million Americans are living with diabetes. In Tennessee alone, an estimated 700,000 people have the condition, and nearly 250,000 of them don’t even know it.
“You can go five years without symptoms, while your body is developing diabetes complications,” she said. “That’s why it’s important to see your doctor or nurse at least once a year. Early detection can make all the difference.”
Dr. Awosanya emphasized that for many, diabetes management begins with lifestyle changes.
“For those with Type 2 diabetes, losing weight can help bring blood sugar levels into remission,” she said. “We encourage patients to increase their intake of protein, healthy fats, and vegetables, and limit carbohydrates like bread, potatoes, and sugary foods.”
Dr. Lawrence Burns discussed the serious link between diabetes and foot complications.
“African Americans and people of color have about a four-times higher rate of amputation than others,” Dr. Burns explained. “That’s due to factors like smoking, peripheral arterial disease, and plaque buildup that block blood flow. Without enough oxygen, tissues die.”
He stressed the importance of regular foot exams, which are typically covered by insurance.
“I’ve been practicing for over 40 years. Diabetes is a chronic disease. Preventative foot care is key. We see patients for a period of nine to twelve weeks, depending on their condition. About 85% of all amputations happen after (or because of) a foot ulcer,” he said.
In other words, most amputations, especially among people with diabetes, start with a small sore or wound (ulcer) on the foot that doesn’t heal properly. Over time, the ulcer can become infected or lead to tissue damage, which may make amputation necessary if not treated early.
“Insurance even covers shoes. With new technologies like biologics from umbilical cord tissue and offloading devices, we’re helping wounds heal faster and reducing amputations.”
Dr. Burns also highlighted a concerning trend. Younger patients, even as early as 12 or 13 years old, are being diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes due to poor diet and lack of physical activity.
“We didn’t see this years ago,” he said. “Now, children are developing conditions we used to call adult-onset diabetes. We have to get kids moving again.”
“It all starts with awareness and taking that first step, scheduling your checkup,” Dr. Awosanya said. “We want our community to know: prevention and control are possible.”
For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit www.meharrymedicalgroup.com.
To schedule an appointment with Dr. Lawrence Burns:
Meharry Family Medicine at Skyline
3443 Dickerson Pike, Nashville, TN 3720
Suite 530
Monday–Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
615.860.7511
To be referred to Dr. Awosonya in our Internal Medicine Department:
1810 Albion Street Nashville, TN 37208
Monday–Friday 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
615.327.MD4U. (615.327.6348)
Written by: Brandon Marshall, communications director Meharry School of Medicine.
