Diabetes – A Public Danger

Diabetes has prevailed as a public threat for many years. The menace has taken many lives and has been a major cause of several dysfunctions in the body. What exactly is Diabetes? Diabetes is a chronic condition brought on either by insufficient insulin production by the pancreas or inefficient insulin utilization by the body.

A hormone called insulin controls blood sugar levels. Uncontrolled diabetes frequently causes hyperglycemia, also known as high blood glucose or raised blood sugar, which over time can potentially affect many different bodily systems, including the neurons and blood vessels.

As per reports given by the WHO (World Health Organization), the number of people suffering from diabetes increased from 108 million in 1980 to 422 million in 2014. This is a very alarming situation as it has resulted in estimated 2 million deaths in 2019.

There are many harmful effects of diabetes that could damage the eyes, kidneys, blood vessels, and heart among other parts of the body. These could further lead to partial blindness, reduced blood flow, damaged retina, cardiac arrest, and kidney failure.

Types of Diabetes

Diabetes can be of three types that are commonly found in the human body, these are listed below:

  1. Type 1 Diabetes – Type 1 diabetes is caused by an autoimmune reaction, your body’s production of insulin is stopped by this reaction. Type 1 diabetes affects between 5–10% of those who have the disease. Type 1 diabetes symptoms frequently appear suddenly. Typically, it is discovered in kids, teenagers, and young adults. Symptoms include excessive excretion of urine (polyuria), thirst (polydipsia), constant hunger, weight loss, vision changes, and fatigue. These symptoms may occur suddenly.
  2. Type 2 Diabetes – Type 2 diabetes means when the human body struggles to properly utilize insulin, thus making it difficult to maintain normal blood sugar levels. The majority of diabetics (more than 90%) are type 2. It takes years to develop, and adults are typically diagnosed with it.
  3. Gestational Diabetes – This is an uncommon type of diabetes, which usually occurs in women who have never had diabetes before becoming pregnant. If you have gestational diabetes, your unborn child may be more susceptible to health issues. However, it raises your chance of developing type 2 diabetes in later life.

Symptoms of Diabetes

Here’s a list of the common symptoms of diabetes:

  • Feeling thirsty very frequently
  • Frequent urination
  • Weight loss
  • Feeling tired
  • Irritated or experiencing other mood swings
  • Having visual problems
  • Having wounds that take a long time to heal
  • Getting several infections, including vaginal, skin, and mouth infections

How to prevent diabetes

Lifestyle is a major cause of diabetes that occurs in numerous people these days. However you must also know that genetics, overweight, high cholesterol can also be major causes of diabetes. Let’s discuss simple ways to prevent diabetes:

  1. Be physically active – Exercise can help you lose weight and blood sugar control. To improve your general health and ultimately help avoid diabetes, try meditation, walking, or aerobics.
  2. Eat healthy – Foods high in fiber encourage weight loss and reduce the incidence of diabetes. Consume a range of nutritious, high-fiber foods, such as fruits, whole grains, legumes like beans and chickpeas, veggies like broccoli and cauliflower, etc.
  3. Stay fit – Overweight is a major concern in case of diabetes. People must keep a check on their weight and overall body mass index (BMI) to tackle diabetes in a better way.

Bottom Line

Diabetes is a menace for many people all over the world and will continue to be one if not taken seriously. Diabetes in young adults can be prevented by taking adequate measures for your health such as healthy diets, and exercise. People with more than 45 years of age can consult a doctor for related medication.

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