A global public health concern

BY DR. TASADUK HUSSAIN ITOO

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), World Diabetes Day has been observed every year on November 14 since 2007. It provides an opportunity to raise awareness of diabetes as a global public health concern and the collective and individual strategies needed for better prevention, screening, diagnosis, and management of the condition. The theme for World Diabetes Day 2023 is “ACCESS TO DIABETES CARE,” highlighting the importance of equal access to the right information and essential care for timely treatment and management.

Diabetes affects the endocrine system, with the pancreas producing insulin. In Type 1 diabetes, the insulin-producing cells are destroyed, while in Type 2 diabetes, the body becomes resistant to insulin. Almost every organ in the body can be adversely affected, but with regular screening, timely intervention, and care, the disease can be kept in check.
Initial symptoms may include excessive thirst, appetite, urination, and swelling of feet. Other symptoms may involve delayed wound healing, frequent infections, nausea, vomiting, and weight loss. Diabetes can cause damage to various tissues and organs, including the kidneys, leading to diabetic nephropathy. Diabetics should monitor serum proteins, blood urea, creatinine levels, and limit painkillers. Special care for feet is essential, checking for numbness, ulcers, and maintaining proper hygiene.

The eyes of a diabetic require special attention, as diabetes can affect the retina and blood vessels, causing diabetic retinopathy and early cataracts. Regular eye check-ups are crucial. There is also a link between depression and diabetes, and monitoring blood sugar levels in patients on mental health drugs is important.

Diabetics have a higher risk of developing cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) due to general micro and macro vascular diseases affecting multiple organs. Increased cholesterol and triglyceride levels contribute to atherosclerosis and heart artery narrowing. Diabetes can also lead to blood clotting, resulting in heart attacks and impaired heart cell structure, potentially leading to heart failure.

A comprehensive approach to identifying pre-diabetics and intervening to reverse metabolic abnormalities is crucial in preventing the increasing prevalence of diabetes. Regular preventive health check-ups and year-round health and wellness management tailored to individual health profiles are essential. Diabetes care and services should be enhanced at all levels of healthcare to ensure universal access. Coordinated efforts should focus on preventing and delaying the onset of the disease through mass awareness programs, societal education, and adopting healthy lifestyle changes, including physical activity and dietary adjustments, to address modifiable risk factors.
Special tips to beat diabetes

▪︎ CUT SUGAR AND REFINED CARBS: Avoiding these foods lowers blood sugar, reducing diabetes risk.
▪︎ REGULAR EXERCISE: Increases insulin sensitivity, preventing pre-diabetes progression.
▪︎ CHOOSE WATER OVER SUGARY DRINKS: Regulates blood sugar and insulin, lowering diabetes risk.
▪︎ LOSE WEIGHT IF OVERWEIGHT: Reduces abdominal weight, significantly lowering diabetes risk.
▪︎ QUIT SMOKING: Especially crucial for heavy smokers, quitting reduces diabetes risk over time.
▪︎ VERY LOW-CARB DIET: Controls blood sugar and insulin, protecting against diabetes.
▪︎ AVOID SEDENTARY BEHAVIOURS: Reduces diabetes risk by avoiding excessive sitting.
▪︎ HIGH-FIBRE DIET: Prevents blood sugar spikes, lowering the risk of diabetes.
▪︎ OPTIMISE VITAMIN D LEVELS: Consuming vitamin D-rich foods or supplements reduces diabetes risk.
▪︎ MINIMISE PROCESSED FOODS: Focusing on whole foods decreases the risk of diabetes.
▪︎ DRINK COFFEE OR TEA: Reduces blood sugar levels and diabetes risk.
▪︎ TAKE NATURAL HERBS: Herbs like curcumin increase insulin sensitivity, lowering diabetes risk.

Dr. Tasaduk Hussain Itoo, Physician & Diabetologist. Member Research Society for the Study of Diabetes in India (RSSDI)