Almost 26 million people in the US have diabetes, including recognizable names like Halle Berry and as we recently learned, the larger than life, Oscar winner Tom Hanks. The actor announced earlier this month that his doctor diagnosed him with Type 2 Diabetes. Hanks also reported that his doc told him if he could “just get down to his high school weight that he could probably get rid of his diabetes.” Hanks joked on Letterman that it wouldn’t be possible as he weighed 98lbs in high school! I applaud Mr. Hanks for coming out and sharing his diagnosis, as he is typically known to be a very private, person. Media outlets have reported and questioned if perhaps Mr. Hanks’ necessity to lose and gain weight for movie roles throughout the years was responsible for him now having diabetes. As a medical professional, I have to admit that’s mostly likely not the reason and Hanks himself stated he doesn’t think that’s the case, as he has been pre-diabetic for years. Interestingly studies have shown that although a lifetime of yo-yo dieting isn’t good for you, it is a healthier alternative to obesity. I’m certainly not condoning yo-yo dieting – we all know a lifestyle change vs. dieting is the best way to maintain a healthy weight and prevent illness. It’s also important to remember that good old genetics plays a significant role in the risk for Type 2 diabetes. There is a definite link and increased risk of Type 2 diabetes for anyone who has a family history of diabetes. That doesn’t mean you will get “the suga,” as diabetes is affectionately called, but it does mean that you may be at increased risk. Wishing you the best of luck Tom in managing your diabetes, I know that he can take it on and win!
Dr. V