Diabetes has reached epidemic proportions in the United States of America, affecting more than 16 million persons. In response to that serious situation, two allied medical organizations recently issued new guidelines on screening and managing the disease.

The new guidelines were developed by a consensus group of diabetes experts brought together by the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) and the American College of Endocrinology (ACE). The AACE is a professional medical organization of some 3 700 physician members who focus on caring for patients with endocrine problems such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, osteoporosis, lipid (cholesterol) disorders, reproductive disorders, growth hormone deficiency, hypertension, and obesity. The ACE is the “scientific arm” of AACE, providing and promoting education and research in clinical endocrinology.

The panel of experts assembled by the two groups reviewed research from international studies on diabetes, with the goal of translating that information into practical guidelines that will result in more effective management of this disease...