Over 25 million people have the fifth leading cause of death in the U.S., and 7 million of those people do not know they have it.

Diabetes kills more than 200,000 people each year, according to the American Diabetes Association (ADA). It can lead to heart disease, stroke, nerve damage and death.

On Saturday, the DeKalb Evening Lions Club, in conjunction with the ADA, distributed diabetes tests and sugar-free candy to raise awareness at Jewel-Osco, 1320 Sycamore Road, and Schnucks, 975 S. Annie Glidden Road. They also accepted donations toward the ADA.

Rick Tonozzi, president of DeKalb Evening Lions Club, said the goal was to raise awareness through test distribution because many people do not know they have the disease. Tonozzi said diabetes has increased over the years because of poor diets.

“I think diabetes is becoming more rapid, not just because of diet, but also because it’s hereditary,” Tonozzi said.

On the self test that was distributed, a chart was given with a list of heights and weights. A test taker’s weight should be lower than the one indicated to stay out of risk for diabetes.

“Genetics and lifestyle habits definitely play a role in leading to diabetes,” said Nisa Kittiviriya, volunteer and NIU student. “You’re more prone if you’re obese.”

Tonozzi said Type 2 diabetes is the most common. According to the ADA, this is where the body does not produce enough insulin, which is a necessary ingredient the body needs in order to break glucose down into energy.

Some symptoms of diabetes include extreme thirst, blurry vision, frequent urination, weight loss and drowsiness. Diabetes is also a leading cause of blindness, according to the ADA.

“With our technology today, no one should ever get to the point of having glaucoma,” Tonozzi said. “It just shouldn’t happen with all we have for treatment.”