"Recent natural disasters and major hurricanes we've faced over the last several years have heightened the need for people with chronic medical conditions to prepare for disasters. But this does not only apply to those who live in a hurricane or earthquake zone-- floods, tornadoes and severe thunderstorms or winter weather can pose the same kinds of risks," said Dr. Mark Hartman, senior medical director, Lilly Diabetes. "Lilly Diabetes is proud to continue supporting ACE's campaign, now in its fifth year, to raise awareness among people with diabetes of the importance of advance preparation for urgent disruptions in their diabetes management routine. It could mean the difference between life and death in an emergency."

Times of disaster can interfere with daily routines and result in erratic eating and disrupted timing of medication doses. These disruptions, and the stress induced by a natural disaster, can both change blood sugar levels and potentially adversely affect the health of people with diabetes.

"In the event that disaster hits, you want to have all of these materials located together in an easy-to-remember location," Dr. Pinsker said. "In the face of disaster, control those elements that are within your grasp."

To download a copy of the Power of Prevention: Diabetes Disaster Plan, visit www.powerofprevention.

SOURCE American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists