Tagged as the Diabetes Capital of the World, India has the largest number of diabetics in the world. Around 70 million people in India have diabetes. A good percentage of the population maybe living with diabetes without being aware that they have it. Surprisingly, every 1 in 2 adults with diabetes are still undiagnosed. So, this World Diabetes Day, here are some facts to help you understand the disease better and help you spread awareness about its prevention, early detection and timely intervention.
RISK FACTORS
-Pre-diabetes is a condition, where one is detected with blood glucose (sugar) levels that are higher than normal but are not high enough to be called diabetes.
-These individuals are at an increased to type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Early detection and managing pre-diabetes early can help in delaying and preventing type 2 diabetes.
-Individuals aged 45 or older, obese, having a family history of diabetes, having high blood pressure or cholesterol and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome(PCOS).
DIABETES FACTS YOU SHOULD KNOW
Here are some important facts that can help you understand the disease better:
1 . Type 2 Diabetes Is The Most Common Type
Type 1 Diabetes is when the body does not produce enough insulin and is usually diagnosed in children and young adults. About 5% of people with diabetes have this form of the disease. Insulin injection is the only treatment. There is currently no known way to prevent it.
Type 2 Diabetes is when the body is unable to effectively use the insulin in the body. It accounts for 95% of the total diabetes cases. It is usually diagnosed in age group of 35-45. A healthy diet and regular exercise can help prevent diabetes. Type 2 diabetes is managed by oral medications.
2 . There May Be No Symptoms
– Many cases of type 2 diabetes have no or very mild symptoms.
-The typical symptoms of diabetes are frequent urination, excessive thirst and hunger, extreme fatigue and delayed healing of cuts and other injuries.
3 . Fasting Blood Sugar > 126 mg/dl Is Abnormal
-Random Blood Sugar, is a blood check at any time of the day when you have severe diabetes symptoms. Diabetes is diagnosed at blood glucose of greater than or equal to 200 mg/dl.
-Fasting Blood Sugar, checks your blood glucose after fasting for at least 8 hours. If the blood glucose comes out to be greater than or equal to 126 mg/dl.
-HbA1c test, measures your average blood glucose for the past 2 to 3 months. Diabetes is diagnosed at an A1c of greater than or equal to 6.5%.
4 . Type 2 Diabetes Is Preventable
-By following a regular moderate physical activity coupled with healthy diet, you can significantly reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes.
-Get into the habit of 30 minutes of moderate intensity exercise 5 days a week.
-If you are overweight, shed those extra kilos.
-Losing even 5-7 % of weight can prevent diabetes.
– Opt for whole grains instead of refined foods.
-Include 5 portions of fruits and vegetables (each portion is equal to handful) into your daily diet.
5 . Timely Detection Can Prevent Complications
-A large numbers of diabetics in India are undiagnosed eventually leading to complications of heart, kidney, eyes and nerves.
-Early detection and timely intervention can help prevent complications.