Growing Threat of Diabetes Worldwide

Diabetes is rapidly becoming a global health crisis. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the number of people with diabetes increased from 108 million in 1980 to 422 million in 2014. By 2019, it was the ninth leading cause of death, with about 1.5 million deaths directly linked to diabetes. The disease is rising faster in low and middle-income countries.

A 2014 report in The Lancet revealed that India has over 61 million people with diabetes, and this number could reach 100 million by 2030. China currently has the most diabetes cases, with India close behind. More than 70% of middle-aged Indians are expected to develop Type 2 diabetes in their lifetime. India accounts for nearly one-sixth of the global diabetes burden.

While diabetes is influenced by genetics and lifestyle, the primary reason for its increase in India is rising obesity due to rapid lifestyle changes. The Lancet reported that the number of obese men in India grew from 0.4 million in 1975 to 9.8 million in 2014, and from 0.8 million to 20 million women in the same period. By 2014, 3.7 million women were severely obese.

Diabetes affects the endocrine system, where the pancreas produces 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 can be affected by diabetes, but with regular check-ups and proper care, the disease can be managed.

Early symptoms include excessive thirst, hunger, frequent urination, and swollen feet. Other symptoms may include slow wound healing, frequent infections, nausea, vomiting, and weight loss. If diabetes is ignored, it can lead to serious complications like diabetic nephropathy, where the kidneys are damaged. Regular tests for urine proteins, blood urea, and creatinine levels every three months are recommended. Diabetics should also limit painkillers and monitor for symptoms like foot swelling, fatigue, weakness, and breathlessness.

Foot care is crucial for diabetics. They should check for numbness, foot ulcers, and inspect between the toes and soles. Feet should be kept clean, and shoes with ankle support should be worn. Nails should be trimmed carefully. A high percentage of amputations are preventable if foot care is prioritized. Diabetes can also affect the eyes, leading to conditions like diabetic retinopathy and early cataracts, potentially resulting in vision loss. Regular eye exams are essential.

There is a link between depression and diabetes, with research showing a higher risk of diabetes among people with depression or anxiety. Some medications for mental disorders can raise blood sugar levels, so monitoring is important.

Diabetics are at a higher risk for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Diabetes can cause damage to blood vessels, leading to conditions like atherosclerosis, heart attacks, and dilated cardiomyopathy, which may result in heart failure.

To prevent diabetes, it’s important to identify and help pre-diabetics early. Preventive health check-ups, community screenings, and customized health management are crucial. Diabetes care should be improved at all healthcare levels to ensure everyone has access to necessary services.

Efforts should focus on preventing and delaying diabetes through mass awareness and education programs. Adopting a healthy lifestyle, including regular physical activity and a balanced diet, along with addressing modifiable risk factors, can significantly help in preventing diabetes.

SPECIAL TIPS TO BEAT DIABETES

▪︎CUTTING SUGAR AND REFINED CARBS FROM ONE’S DIET: Eating foods high in refined carbs and sugar increases blood sugar levels, which may lead to diabetes over time. Avoiding these foods may help reduce the risk.

▪︎WORKING OUT REGULARLY : Performing physical activity on a regular basis can increase insulin secretion and sensitivity, which may help prevent the progression from pre-diabetes to diabetes.

▪︎DRINKING WATER AS YOUR PRIMARY BEVERAGE :

Drinking water instead of other beverages may help in regulation of blood sugar and insulin levels, thereby reducing the risk of diabetes.

▪︎LOSING WEIGHT IF OVERWEIGHT OR OBESE : Carrying excess weight, particularly in the abdominal area, increases the likelihood of developing diabetes. Losing weight may significantly reduce the risk of diabetes.

▪︎QUITTING SMOKING : Smoking is strongly linked to the risk of diabetes, especially in heavy smokers. Quitting has been shown to reduce this risk over time.

▪︎FOLLOWING A VERY LOW-CARB DIET : Following a ketogenic or very-low-carb diet can help keep blood sugar and insulin levels under control, which may protect against diabetes.

▪︎AVOIDING LARGE PORTION SIZES : Avoiding large portion sizes can help reduce blood sugar levels and decrease the risk of diabetes.

▪︎AVOIDING SEDENTARY BEHAVIORS : Avoiding sedentary behaviours like excessive sitting has been shown to reduce your risk of getting diabetes.

▪︎EATING A HIGH-FIBER DIET : Consuming a good fiber source at each meal can help prevent spikes in blood sugar and insulin levels, which may help reduce the risk of developing diabetes.

▪︎OPTIMIZING VITAMIN D LEVELS : Consuming foods high in vitamin D or taking supplements can help optimize vitamin D blood levels, which can reduce one’s risk of diabetes.

▪︎MINIMIZING INTAKE OF PROCESSED FOODS : Minimizing processed foods and focusing on whole foods with protective effects on health may help decrease the risk of diabetes.

▪︎DRINKING COFFEE OR TEA : Drinking coffee or tea may help reduce blood sugar levels, increase insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk of diabetes.

▪︎TAKING NATURAL HERBS : The herbs like cur cumin increase insulin sensitivity, reduce blood sugar levels and may help prevent diabetes.

By: Dr. Tasaduk Hussain Itoo is a Diabetes Expert/Physician