Dr. Atma S Raj
Specialist Internist
Badr Al Samaa Hospital, Ruwi

World Diabetes Day is marked every year on 14 November, the birthday of Sir Frederick Banting, who co-discovered insulin along with Charles Best in 1922. 100 years after the discovery of insulin, millions of people with diabetes around the world cannot access the care they need. The 2021 – 2023 theme is “Access to Diabetes Care“. When not detected and treated early, diabetes can lead to serious and potentially life-threatening complications.

Understanding Diabetes

There are three main types of Diabetes: Type 1 Diabetes, Type 2 Diabetes and Gestational Diabetes and Gestational Diabetes.

Type 1 Diabetes: Thought to be an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. This is typically diagnosed in children and young adults. Individuals with Type 1 diabetes require insulin therapy for survival. Symptoms of Type 1 Diabetes include increased thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and blurred vision.

Type 2 Diabetes: Often associated with insulin resistance, where the body’s cells do not respond effectively to insulin and the pancreas may not produce enough insulin. Type 2 Diabetes is commonly diagnosed in adults, but it can also occur in children and adolescents. While some people with Type 2 diabetes may require insulin, many can manage the condition through lifestyle changes, oral medications, or other injectable medications. Symptoms are more similar to Type 1 diabetes but may develop more gradually. In some cases, individuals may not experience noticeable symptoms.

Gestational Diabetes: It develops during pregnancy when the body cannot produce enough insulin to meet the increased needs, leading to elevated blood sugar levels. It occurs during pregnancy and usually resolves after childbirth. Some women may need insulin therapy during pregnancy to manage blood sugar levels. The main risk factors include Increased age, family history of diabetes, overweight or obesity, and certain ethnic backgrounds. If not properly managed, gestational diabetes can increase the risk of complications for both the mother and the baby during and after childbirth. It also increases the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life.

World Diabetes Day provides an opportunity to raise awareness of diabetes as a global public health issue and what needs to be done, collectively and individually, for better prevention, diagnosis and management of the condition.

This World Diabetes Day, on lines of WHO we will highlight the need for equitable access to essential care, including raising awareness of people with diabetes which can minimize their risk of complications. Activities like awareness talks, info-graphical material will be shared and we can create a platform to share the experiences of people with all forms of diabetes to help those impacted to take action, including seeking and obtaining essential care.

Protecting yourself from diabetes

Protecting yourself from diabetes involves adopting a healthy lifestyle and making informed choices to manage risk factors. Here are several key steps you can take:

• Maintain a Healthy Diet: Focus on a well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Limit the intake of processed foods, sugary beverages, and high-fat, high-sugar snacks.
• Regular Physical Activity: Engage in regular exercise, aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week.

Achieve and Maintain a Healthy Weight:

• Maintain a Body Mass Index (BMI) within the recommended range.
• Monitor Blood Sugar Levels: If you have risk factors for diabetes, monitor your blood sugar levels regularly.
• Limit Alcohol Consumption: If you choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation.
• Quit Smoking: Smoking is associated with an increased risk of diabetes and complications.
• Manage Stress: Practice stress-reducing activities such as meditation, deep breathing, yoga, or mindfulness.
• Regular Health Check-ups: Schedule regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor your overall health.
• Know Your Family History: Understand your family’s medical history, as genetics can play a role in diabetes risk.

By incorporating these lifestyle changes, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing diabetes and improve your overall well-being.

In conclusion, diabetes is a complex and prevalent health condition that demands our attention and proactive efforts. By fostering awareness, promoting healthy lifestyles, and advancing medical research, we can collectively strive to mitigate the impact of diabetes on individuals and communities. Empowering individuals with knowledge about prevention, early detection, and effective management is paramount. As we navigate the landscape of diabetes, let us unite in the pursuit of a healthier future, where the burden of this chronic disease is minimized, and individuals can lead fulfilling lives free from the constraints of diabetes-related complications. Together, we can make strides towards a world where diabetes is better understood, managed, and ultimately conquered.