Diabetes – back to basics

DIABETES is a serious ailment. Yet, it remains a mystery to many people. The general attitude is, “Heard of it. Read about it.” “I haven’t checked if I have it.” “I don’t have it, so I don’t need to care, right?”

In Malaysia, 10 out of every 100 people over the age of 35 have diabetes.

In Asia, diabetes and not bird flu is the bigger threat to lives.

Globally, diabetes is rated as the fourth largest killer disease. The statistics should be enough to make us want to care and jump to action.

If you have any of the following symptoms, take a diabetes test:

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Frequent urination

Excessive thirst

Unexplained weight loss

Unusual hunger

Extreme fatigue

Irritability

Frequent infections

Blurred vision

Slow-to-heal cuts and bruises

Vaginitis or recurring yeast infections in women

Tingling or numbness in the hands or feet

Recurring skin, gum or bladder infections

If you answer yes to any of the following, you are at risk!

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You have a family history of diabetes

You are 20% over a healthy weight or obese

You lead a sedentary lifestyle

You had abnormal glucose levels during pregnancy or had a baby who was nine pounds or more at birth

You are 45 or older

You have low HDL cholesterol or high overall cholesterol and/or triglyceride levels.

You have very high blood pressure.

What is diabetes?

There is type 1 and type 2 diabetes. In type 1 diabetes, the pancreas either no longer produces insulin or not enough insulin. In type 2 diabetes, the pancreas makes insulin but the body is not able to use it properly.

Why do we need insulin?

Insulin helps our cells take in fuel in the form of blood sugar or glucose. Glucose is produced when we digest food. If glucose doesn’t get into the cells, it weakens.

The glucose then builds up in the blood stream, damaging our blood vessels and organs.

Why don’t we know we have symptoms?

First, it is not obvious because we feel fine, and second, it hides behind other ailments like cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, nerve damage and eye disease.

By the time we know we have it, it is firmly established and would be difficult to treat. Of the 16 million people with diabetes, only a third realise they have it.

Is there a cure?

No. But, with the right treatment and regular monitoring, we can get our blood sugar back to acceptable levels, and we can lead a normal and healthy lifestyle.

Who is at risk?

Type 1 diabetes often occurs in people less than 30, who are not overweight. Type 2 diabetes typically develops in people over 30, who have one or more risk factors.


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Excerpt from The Star

Note: This information is courtesy of Roche Diagnostics.The information provided is for educational and communication purposes only and it should not be construed as personal medical advice. The Star does not give any warranty on accuracy, completeness, functionality, usefulness or other assurances as to the content appearing in this column. The Star disclaims all responsibility for any losses, damage to property or personal injury suffered directly or indirectly from reliance on such information.