Diabetes Mellitus is a chronic disorderwe hear about every other day. Yes, it is rising and has affected more than 50 million Indians, giving India the undesirable tag of ‘Diabetes Capital of the World’. Unfortunately, despite this devastating surge in the disease related statistics, there is only little awareness about it among our people, making more and more people vulnerable.
The causes of diabetes vary from individual to individual depending on genetics, family history, ethnicity, health and environmental factors. Different types of diabetes namely Type1, Type2 and Gestational Diabetes are caused by different factors.However obesity, living a sedentary lifestyle, increasing age and a bad diet are the risk factors which increase the chances of developing Type 2 diabetes – the most common type of diabetes.
Essentially, diabetes is characterised by a high blood glucose level caused by either non-production or less production of insulin by the pancreas,or body’s inability to accept insulin. If you experience any of the following symptoms, it’s time to visit a doctor:-
No, diabetes can’t be cured completely, but it can be treated and controlled.
A diabetes treatment plan formulated by an expert doctor is required for controlling diabetes. Diabetes control is basically a combination of medication, exercise and a planned diet; followed by constant monitoring of blood glucose level and periodic health checks by other health care professionals i.e. foot doctor, nutritionist, ophthalmologist, gynaecologist and endocrinologist.
One must religiously make efforts to minimise the effects of diabetes, otherwise it can cause permanent damage to vital organs like eyes, kidneys, etc., and may even turn out to be fatal.
Type 1 and Gestational Diabetes: No, they can’t be prevented.
Type 1 diabetes (generally in kids) and gestational diabetes(during pregnancy) can’t be prevented but the associated risks can be lowered with an effective dietary plan, medication and a good lifestyle.
Type 2 Diabetes:Yes, it can be prevented.
While genetics play a large role in developing Type 2 diabetes, an active lifestyle and a structured healthy diet can pull down the genetic factor and prevent the onset of Type 2 Diabetes altogether, as suggested by various clinical trials across the globe.
World Diabetes Day: Efforts at AIMS
Asian Hospital strives to make people aware about Diabetes. To observe the ‘World Diabetes Day’, we organized a knowledge cum fitness session today at Town Park in Sector 12, Faridabad today at 6 in the morning. Dr. Sandeep Kharb counselled the participants about BP, Sugar and Diet; combined with sessions of Yoga, Aerobics and Zumba- all free of cost!