Type 2 diabetes is skyrocketing globally, but despite the increasing prevalence of the metabolic disorder, numerous myths persist. But not knowing the difference between fact and fiction can be harmful to diabetics.

Here are four common myths — and accompanying truths — about diabetes, courtesy of the American Diabetes Association and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Myth: Drugs are the only way to control blood sugar.

Fact: While millions take meds to control blood sugar to head off complications from the metabolic disorder — including life-threatening heart disease, organ damage, vision problems, and amputations — many studies have found that sustained weight loss can reverse diabetes, amounting to the next best thing to a cure.

Myth: If you are overweight or obese, you will eventually develop Type 2 diabetes.

Fact: While extra pounds are a risk factor for developing this disease, most overweight people never develop diabetes. What’s more, other factors can contribute to diabetes risk in thin people: family history, ethnicity, and age.

Myth: People with diabetes can't eat sweets or chocolate.

Fact: As long as sweet treats are eaten in moderation as part of a healthy diet, they are not off limits to diabetics. Getting regular exercise will also burn off any added calories from eating chocolate and other treats

Myth: Diabetics are more likely to get colds and other illnesses.

Fact: People with diabetes are no more likely to get sick than anyone else. They are, however, advised to get flu shots and take precautions to reduce their risk of catching colds, because managing the disease is far more difficult when you’re under the weather.

Here are some additional facts on diabetes:

• 1.4 million Americans are diagnosed with diabetes every year.
• 30 million Americans have diabetes (9.3 percent of the population).
• 9 million Americans have diabetes but don’t know it because it hasn’t been diagnosed.
• 11 million American seniors (65 and older) have diabetes (26 percent of the population).