Triple Threat Actress Emphasizes the Importance of Health Education
Viola Davis, a renowned actress and producer, has achieved the rare triple crown of acting with an Academy Award, an Emmy Award, and a Tony Award. But recently, she has taken on a new role as an advocate for diabetes education and awareness after being diagnosed with prediabetes.
In an interview with NIH MedlinePlus magazine, Davis shares her new outlook on health and her passion for educating others about diabetes.
Facing the Diagnosis
When Davis received her prediabetes diagnosis, she was frozen with shock. She considered herself a very healthy woman who watched what she ate and exercised regularly. But looking back, she realizes that she may have had preconceived notions about diabetes. There is a history of diabetes in her family, with several members having type 2 diabetes, including her sisters and great aunt.
However, conversations within her family never focused on prevention or taking proactive steps to avoid the diagnosis. Instead, they perpetuated fallacies and old wives’ tales about diabetes, referring to it as “getting the sugar” or warning against eating too much sugar.
Empowerment through Knowledge
Since her diagnosis, Davis has become empowered to take control of her health. She recognized the importance of researching and learning how to lower her blood sugar levels to prevent developing full-blown type 2 diabetes. Davis became more conscious of her eating habits, paying attention to what she consumed. Being a busy individual, she would sometimes eat on-the-go or snack without considering the consequences. She also realized the impact of factors like alcohol consumption on her blood sugar levels.
Davis emphasizes the significance of tracking blood sugar levels and checking A1C levels regularly, even though it can be challenging to stay on top of everything. Yet, she managed to prioritize her health.
A Message of Empowerment
When asked about her message to those facing type 2 diabetes, Davis highlights the power of education. She encourages individuals to visit their healthcare providers and get their blood glucose levels tested. And for those with diabetes, she urges them to press their healthcare providers to help manage the condition. For those with prediabetes, she advises seeking guidance on how to prevent the development of diabetes.
Davis acknowledges that some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to diabetes, but she emphasizes that there are still actions within their control to manage or prevent the disease. In partnership with Merck, Davis worked on a documentary called “A Touch of Sugar” to raise awareness and empower others.
She also addresses the stigma surrounding prediabetes and diabetes, emphasizing that it should not be dismissed or stigmatized. Having personally experienced the disease despite her active lifestyle, Davis dispels common myths and misconceptions.
The Importance of Diabetes Research
As diabetes affects a considerable number of people and leads to numerous issues, Davis emphasizes the importance of diabetes research. She supports the efforts of organizations like the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in discovering improved treatments and prevention tools. Davis highlights the desperate need for further research in the field.
Beyond Acting
While Davis continues to work on her TV series “How to Get Away with Murder” and the movie “Suicide Squad 2,” she is also excited about her recent completion of a new film titled “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom” for Netflix. Similar to her previous film “Fences,” this movie is an adaptation of a play by August Wilson. However, alongside her professional projects, Davis remains committed to being the best wife and mother she can be.
Viola Davis’s journey with prediabetes has transformed her into a passionate advocate for diabetes education and awareness. Through her own experiences, she empowers others to take charge of their health, emphasizing the importance of education, debunking myths, and supporting diabetes research.
