Three of every five diabetics in the U.S. experience at least one significant complication from the disease, such as heart disease, stroke, eye damage, chronic kidney disease or foot problems leading to amputation.

 

For the study, researchers analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey conducted by the National Center for Health Statistics between 1999 and 2004. The study found that one in 10 diabetics has two complications, one in 15 has three complications and one in 13 has four or more complications.

 

The study also found that complications are most prevalent among diabetic Hispanics, at a rate of about 68%. About 59% of black diabetics experience diabetes-related complications, and about 55% of white diabetics experience such complications.