SJR61 Summary

• Designates April 19, 2011, as American Diabetes Association Alert Day at the Alabama State Capitol

• Establishes that an estimated 23.6 million people (7.8 percent of the U.S. population) are affected by diabetes, with more than half suffering from Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy

• Notes that Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy causes intense pain and foot problems, with amputation rates in diabetics being 10 times higher than in non-diabetics, and more than 60 percent of nontraumatic lower extremity amputations attributed to the condition

• Emphasizes that Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy accounts for more diabetes-related hospitalizations than any other complication and can occur in both Type I and Type II diabetes

• Urges Alabamians with diabetes to be aware of warning signs and dangers of Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy and to make healthy lifestyle choices to prevent its onset