Diabetes Truths and Misconceptions
Course Objectives
By the end of this article, readers will be able to:
- Define and differentiate the major types of diabetes.
- Identify at least five common misconceptions about diabetes.
- Explain the lifestyle, genetic, and environmental risk factors for diabetes.
- Discuss current methods of diagnosing and monitoring diabetes.
Course Content
Course Creator: Kris Fox, CPT1
Total CE Hours: 1 Credit Hour
Pace Course #: 586-2219-25
This article explores the evolving landscape of diabetes care and public perception. Through a review of clinical evidence and common cultural misunderstandings, this article identifies major misconceptions about diabetes and corrects them with current medical understanding. The role of phlebotomists in accurate testing and patient education is also highlighted. The goal is to equip healthcare professionals with better awareness, communication strategies, and critical thinking in diabetes-related care. Readers will gain a deeper understanding of how to dispel misinformation in patient interactions and better support prevention efforts. This resource also serves to reinforce the importance of early detection and consistent monitoring in long-term diabetes management.
References
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- De Widt, L. (2022, October 3). What is the link between Alzheimer’s and Type 3 diabetes? Mayo Clinic News Network. https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/researchers-link-alzheimers-gene-to-type-iii-diabetes/
- Type 2 diabetes - Symptoms and causes. (n.d.). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/type-2-diabetes/symptoms-causes/syc-20351193
- Heba Almasri, Ryan A. Popp; Misconceptions and Beliefs Related to Diabetes Care and Their Effect on A1C Values in People With Type 2 Diabetes. Clin Diabetes 15 October 2024; 42 (4): 488–496. https://doi.org/10.2337/cd23-0071
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- (n.d.). The American Diabetes Association Releases Standards of Care in Diabetes—2025. American Diabtetes Assoication. Retrieved May 23, 2025, from diabetes.org/newsroom/press-releases/american-diabetes-association-releases-standards-care-diabetes-2025
- (n.d.). Introduction and Methodology: Standards of Care in Diabetes—2024. American Diabtetes Assoication. Retrieved May 23, 2025, from https://diabetesjournals.org/care/article/47/Supplement_1/S1/153952/Introduction-and-Methodology-Standards-of-Care-in
- (n.d.). Cultural Barriers to Care: Inverting the Problem. American Diabtetes Assoication. Retrieved May 23, 2025, from https://diabetesjournals.org/spectrum/article/14/1/13/207/Cultural-Barriers-to-Care-Inverting-the-Problem
- (n.d.). Significance of HbA1c Test in Diagnosis and Prognosis of Diabetic Patients. National Library Of Medicine. Retrieved May 21, 2025, from https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/diabetes-tests/
- (n.d.). Phlebotomist. Cleveland Clinic. Retrieved May 23, 2025, from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/23916-phlebotomist
