Given that diabetes increases the risks for heat illnesses, a lot of people with diabetes do not know how to lower their risks.

Diabetics do not sweat as much as non-diabetics sweat and this predisposes diabetic individuals to heat related problems and higher levels of blood sugar. A recent Mayo clinic survey revealed that a significant number of patients show impaired glycemic control when exposed to the hot summer weather upping their risk for dehydration.

The researchers studied 152 surveys about heat awareness as accomplished y diabetic patients in Phoenix. The results show a significant 20% of the subjects not observing precautions until the temperature they encounter is about 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Heat illness can easily manifest even when the weather is at 80 degrees.

During summer, there is an obvious jump on emergency room visits of diabetic patients. Hospitalization also occurrence of death jumps significantly.

Despite the danger, only around 50% of patients know what heat index is.  This index is a combo of temperature and humidity levels. Heat becomes a more potent threat when you have high humidity and consequently less perspiration.

Patients who were warned on the effects of heat also showed little knowledge about the effects of heat on their medicines, glucose meter, and test strips.

The proponents of the study propose more patient education for diabetic patients to help them realize about the dangers of their illness.