The evolving diabetes burden in the United States.

A diabetes epidemic emerged during the 20th century and continues unchecked into the 21st century. It has already taken an extraordinary toll on the U.S. population through its acute and chronic complications, disability, and premature death. Trend data suggest that the burden will continue to increase. Efforts to pre- vent or delay the complications of diabetes or, better yet, to prevent or delay the development of diabetes itself are urgently needed.