As of 2023, the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) estimated that approximately 537 million adults (aged 20-79) were living with diabetes globally. This number represents a significant portion of the global population and highlights the widespread impact of the disease. However it is a condition that can be managed with the right support.
So lets delve a bit deeper
What is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a chronic health condition where the body has trouble regulating blood sugar (glucose) levels. Normally, our body uses a hormone called insulin to help move sugar from our blood into our cells for energy. In diabetes, this process doesn’t work properly, leading to high levels of sugar in the blood.
Types and Causes of Diabetes
Chances are, you have heard of Type 2 diabetes. But did you know there are other types of diabetes?
- Type 1 Diabetes: This is an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. The exact cause isn’t fully understood but is believed to involve genetic and environmental factors.
- Type 2 Diabetes: This type usually develops over time and is often linked to lifestyle factors. The body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough. Causes include:
- Genetics: Family history can play a role.
- Lifestyle: Poor diet, lack of exercise, and being overweight increase the risk.
- Age: Risk increases with age.
- Other factors: Such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol.
- Gestational Diabetes: This occurs during pregnancy and usually disappears after childbirth, but it increases the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life.
Symptoms
Some of the symptoms to look out for include:
- Frequent Urination
- Increased Thirst
- Extreme Fatigue
- Unexplained Weight Loss
- Slow Healing
- Increased Hunger
Some of the complications of diabetes include:
- Heart Disease: Increased risk of heart attacks and strokes due to damaged blood vessels.
- Kidney Damage: Can lead to kidney disease or even kidney failure, which might require treatments like dialysis.
- Vision Problems: Risk of serious eye issues that can lead to blurred vision or even blindness.
- Nerve Damage: Can cause pain, tingling, or numbness in your feet and hands, and affect other organs.
- Foot Problems: Higher chance of infections, sores, and ulcers on the feet that might not heal well.
- Skin Issues: Increased risk of skin infections and problems like dry, itchy skin.
Prevention and Managing Complications
- Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Limit sugary foods and refined carbs.
- Stay Active: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise, like brisk walking, each week.
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Achieve and keep a healthy weight through diet and exercise.
- Limit Alcohol: Drink alcohol in moderation, if at all.
- Quit Smoking: If you smoke, seek help to quit, as smoking can increase the risk of diabetes.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water and limit sugary drinks.
- Manage Stress: Practice stress-reducing activities like meditation, yoga, or deep-breathing exercises.
- Get Regular Checkups: Monitor your health with regular doctor visits, especially if you have risk factors for diabetes.
- Medication Adherence: Following prescribed treatments and medications is key to controlling diabetes effectively.
- Routine Checkups: Regular visits to healthcare providers, including eye doctors, dentists, and podiatrists, can help catch and address complications early.
By making informed choices and working with healthcare professionals, people with diabetes can lead healthy and fulfilling lives.
