Early diagnosis of diabetes can help prevent complications like cardiovascular disease, nerve damage, kidney failure, and eye problems. Simple blood tests, such as fasting blood glucose, HbA1c (glycated hemoglobin), and glucose tolerance tests, are instrumental in diagnosing diabetes at its onset.
Routine screenings allow people to understand their health better and take preventative steps if they are pre-diabetic or at risk.
New Delhi: Diabetes is not a singular disease but a group of conditions characterised by high blood glucose (sugar) levels. Diabetes research is a rapidly evolving field, with advances in treatments, technologies, and preventive approaches emerging continually. From artificial pancreas systems and wearable glucose monitors to gene therapy research and stem cell studies, the scientific community is hopeful about the future of diabetes care. However, equitable access to these innovations is critical to ensuring that all patients can benefit, regardless of their location or socioeconomic status.
What are the types of diabetes?
The two main types of diabetes are:
- Type 1 Diabetes: An autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. This form usually develops in childhood or adolescence, although it can occur at any age.
- Type 2 Diabetes: The more common form, accounting for around 90% of all diabetes cases. It often develops due to lifestyle factors like poor diet, lack of physical activity, and obesity, although genetics also play a significant role.
Dr. Avinash Phadke, President & Mentor, Agilus Diagnostics, shared some tips to manage the condition naturally.
Another important condition related to diabetes is gestational diabetes, which develops during pregnancy and can affect both mother and child.
- Physical well-being: Emphasises the importance of regular physical activity and a nutritious diet to prevent and manage diabetes.
- Societal well-being: Addresses barriers that may prevent individuals with diabetes from leading a fulfilling life.
- Mental well-being: Focuses on recognising and supporting the emotional and psychological challenges that come with managing a chronic condition.
How to manage diabetes?
Early diagnosis of diabetes can help prevent complications like cardiovascular disease, nerve damage, kidney failure, and eye problems. Simple blood tests, such as fasting blood glucose, HbA1c (glycated hemoglobin), and glucose tolerance tests, are instrumental in diagnosing diabetes at its onset. Doctors encourage everyone, especially those at higher risk—such as individuals with a family history of diabetes, overweight individuals, and those over the age of 45—to get screened regularly. Routine screenings allow people to understand their health better and take preventative steps if they are pre-diabetic or at risk.
Effective diabetes management is multi-faceted, focusing on lifestyle modifications, regular monitoring, and medical management when necessary. Here are some actionable tips:
- Balanced Diet: Opt for a diet rich in whole grains, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Limit sugar and refined carbohydrates, which can cause blood glucose spikes.
- Regular Exercise: Engaging in at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week can significantly improve insulin sensitivity and control blood glucose levels.
- Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight is essential for preventing and managing Type 2 diabetes.
- Routine Monitoring: Regular blood sugar monitoring enables patients to track fluctuations and adjust lifestyle or medications as necessary.
- Medication Adherence: For those on diabetes medications or insulin, consistency is crucial for keeping blood sugar levels stable.
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