DiaBEATing the Odds: Learn More About Diabetes
DPAC is partnering with DiaBEATing the Odds:
As we prepare for our upcoming event in November, we wanted to give you a little insight on diabetes and a couple of things you should know regarding this condition.
What Is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a condition where the body either doesn’t produce enough insulin (Type 1 diabetes) or cannot use insulin effectively (Type 2 diabetes). Insulin is a hormone essential for regulating blood sugar levels. Understanding the types of diabetes is crucial for effective management.
- Type 1 diabetes is less common and typically diagnosed in children and young adults.
- Type 2 diabetes is more prevalent in seniors and is often related to lifestyle factors.
Early detection is key to managing diabetes effectively. Diabetes symptoms and signs of diabetes include increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow-healing wounds. Understanding these symptoms of diabetes helps in timely intervention.
Causes and Prevention
While genetics play a role, lifestyle factors greatly influence the development and management of diabetes. Understanding what causes diabetes is essential in formulating prevention strategies. Lifestyle modifications can significantly reduce the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Regular physical activity and a balanced diet are crucial in preventing or managing diabetes.
Diabetes Management Guidelines
Diabetes management involves regular monitoring of blood sugar levels, medication adherence, and lifestyle adjustments. This includes:
- Regular blood sugar monitoring
- Medication management
- Dietary modifications
- Regular physical activity
The Role of Self-Management
Diabetes self-management is empowering for those with this illness. It includes understanding how to monitor blood sugar levels, recognizing symptoms that require medical attention, and making daily lifestyle choices that contribute to stable blood sugar levels.
Managing Diabetes Effectively
Effective management of diabetes involves a holistic approach:
- Regular Medical Check-Ups: Regular consultations with healthcare professionals are essential. They can provide tailored diabetes guidelines for each individual.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Making lifestyle modifications is another major aspect of diabetes management. This includes changing eating habits and diet, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, staying hydrated, and more.
- Pain Management: Proper management of chronic pain can indirectly aid in diabetes management.
Quick-Fire Facts:
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PrevalenceAs of 2022, 537 million adults between the ages of 20 and 79 have diabetes, and this number is expected to increase to 643 million by 2030 and 783 million by 2045. However, 240 million of those adults, or almost half, are undiagnosed.
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TypeAbout 90–95% of people with diabetes have type 2, while 5% have type 1, and the rest have gestational diabetes. Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy when the placenta produces a hormone that prevents the mother's body from using insulin effectively. Symptoms go away after the baby is born.
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ComplicationsDiabetes can lead to blindness, kidney failure, heart attacks, strokes, and lower limb amputations. Adults with diabetes are twice as likely to die from heart disease or stroke. In 2019, diabetes and kidney disease caused an estimated 2 million deaths.
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PreventionA healthy diet, regular physical activity, maintaining a normal body weight, and avoiding tobacco use can help prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes. People with diabetes should also count carbohydrates to help them determine how much insulin to take.
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