Diabetes is a serious problem for many Americans, but an especially serious one among the African-American community, where there is a much greater risk for the disease than any other, according to Market Wired.

26 million people in the U.S. are living with diabetes, 4.9 million of adult-aged sufferers are African American. During Black History Month, the American Diabetes Association is calling special attention to the disease and providing educational materials to raise awareness and prevention of Type 2 Diabetes.

Elizabeth R. Seaquist, MD, President, Medicine & Science, American Diabetes Association said,”Diabetes affects every community, yet the rate of diabetes among African Americans is 1.8 times more likely than non-Latino whites. This month, we want to draw attention to the seriousness of diabetes among the African American community. We want the community to get educated about their risk for type 2 diabetes and encourage them to learn about the Association’s African American program called Live Empowered.”

Surprising studies have concluded that Type 2 Diabetes can often be prevented or delayed by losing just 7 percent of body weight, as well as participating in regular physical activity, like 30 minutes a day, five days a week. Of course, healthier eating can go a long way to prevent many health issues, especially Diabetes.

The Association is also teaming up this month with cyclist Chris Carmichael for the Tour de Cure in which 65,000 cyclists are expected to participate in 90 cities throughout the country in 2014. All Tour de Cure funds raised through the nationwide cycling events will go to the American Diabetes Association.

These funds will help with research and actions taken to prevent and find a cure for Type 2 Diabetes and to help improve the lives of those who suffer from the disease. The funds will also help raise awareness, especially for the 79 million Americans who are teetering on the edge with Pre-diabetes.

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