The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) just released alarming new statistics showing an enormous surge in U.S. diabetes cases.

Diabetes occurs when the body loses the ability to control blood sugar. This can lead to a host of illnesses such as heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, vision loss and circulatory problems.

According to CNN Health, the most recent CDC Morbidity and Mortality Report (MMWR) reveals a 100% increase in diabetes cases from 1995 to 2010 among 18 states. Forty-two states showed a 50% or greater increase. Oklahoma showed the greatest increase with a 226% rise in diabetes diagnoses. The study also revealed a 158% increase in Kentucky, 145% in Georgia, 140% in Alabama and 135% in Washington state.

The American Diabetes Association reports 8% of the U.S. population (or 25.8 million people) currently suffer from diabetes. CDC Diabetes Statistician and MMWR writer Linda Geiss expressed amazement at the increase in diabetes cases:

Even when you know (the prevalence of diagnosed diabetes) is increasing, to see that level of increase in shocking to me.

The Journal of Preventive Medicine recently reported that by 2030 42% of Americans will likely be obese. Obesity is one of the biggest factors leading to diabetes.  To reverse this trend, Geiss offered simple solutions.

Losing 5 to 7% of body weight along with increased exercise and healthy eating can reduce the risk of developing diabetes for the more than 79 million Americans who are now pre-diabetic.

Writer Bennett Holleman contributed this report.