Be aware of diabetes
World Diabetes Day (WDD) is observed on November 14 every year. The theme for this year’s World Diabetes Day is – ‘Breaking the Barriers, Bridging the Gaps’. This indicates a commitment to reduce the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes. The theme aims to ensure that all people living with diabetes have access to equitable, comprehensive, affordable and quality treatment.
World Diabetes Day has its own special significance. It aims to explain the importance of early diagnosis of the disease and regular check-ups. This is an awareness campaign. Many people with diabetes remain unaware of their condition, which causes serious problems for them.
Types of diabetes
The most common types of diabetes include: type 2 diabetes;
In this type of diabetes, the body does not make enough insulin and/or the body’s cells do not respond normally to insulin (insulin resistance).
Type 1 diabetes
In type 1 diabetes, the body does not make enough insulin. In fact, it is essential for both diabetes control and patient survival.
Gestational diabetes
Many times women develop gestational diabetes during pregnancy. A woman with gestational diabetes has a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life. Caution is required.
Symptoms of diabetes
Common symptoms of diabetes include: dry mouth and increased thirst, unexplained weight loss, frequent urination, vision loss, fatigue, numbness in hands or feet, slow healing of cuts and bruises.
Causes of diabetes
Obesity or overweight, age over 45 years, family history of type 2 diabetes, lack of physical activity, metabolic dysfunction associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), stress, history of gestational diabetes during previous pregnancy, history of poly Cystic ovary syndrome.
Diagnosis of diabetes
Three types of tests can help measure blood glucose levels: the fasting blood glucose test, the postprandial blood glucose test, the glycated hemoglobin test or HbA1c, which provides the average blood glucose level over the past 3 months.
Important measures for the treatment of diabetes
Although genetic and autoimmune forms of diabetes cannot be prevented, certain measures can help reduce the risk of prediabetes, gestational diabetes, and type 2 diabetes.
They can be: eating a healthy, balanced diet, being physically active (exercising 40 minutes a day at least 5 days a week), working to achieve a healthy weight, managing stress and anxiety, Get enough sleep, quit smoking, and take medications as directed by your doctor to reduce existing heart risks.
