Diabetes

UT Health Diabetes is committed to helping people control their blood sugar as well their lipid levels, blood pressure and other cardiovascular risk factors.  We provide advanced care for diabetes to help you live a healthy life.

Our practice is led by the renowned endocrinologist, Dr. Ralph DeFronzo, who specializes in the treatment and prevention of diabetes.  Our team is made up of board certified endocrinologists, certified diabetes educators (CDEs), registered dietitians, nurses and nurse practitioners. Every patient benefits from having our multidisciplinary team managing their diabetes. Each of our specialists provide their specific expertise in caring for our patients, offering a comprehensive approach to diabetes care. 

We also partner with other health care specialties including, nephrology, for the treatment of kidney conditions; ophthalmology for eye conditions; as well as podiatrists and wound care specialists.

What is diabetes?

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 30 million Americans have diabetes. It is estimated that an additional 7.2 million Americans have diabetes but do not know it.

In Type 1 diabetes, the pancreas produces little to no insulin.  Type 1 generally occurs at a younger age but it can occur at any age.  About 5% of individuals with diabetes have type 1 diabetes.

In Type 2 diabetes, the pancreas is not producing adequate insulin or insulin is not working properly. About 95% of individuals with diabetes have type 2 diabetes. 

Diabetes is the leading cause of heart disease, kidney disease, blindness and amputation. Our team is here to help you develop an individualized diabetes care plan to include lifestyle modifications and medication if needed.