As World Diabetes Day is observed across the globe on Nov 14, leading specialists from Hôpital de La Tour have warned against the harmful effects of diabetes, including kidney failure, heart attacks, blindness, strokes and limb amputation.
Founded in 1991 by the International Diabetes Federation with support from the World Health Organization, World Diabetes Day raises awareness about diabetes and the health and economic threats it poses as a global public health issue.
Diabetes is the most common metabolic disease, characterised by an elevated glucose level in the blood and can be one of two types. While type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease, type 2 diabetes is known as adult-onset; in other words, it sets in progressively over time.
Type 1 diabetes is related to a deficiency in insulin because the cells that produce it are damaged. In contrast, type 2 diabetes is brought on by the body developing a resistance to the action of insulin, resulting in problems with sugar absorption and elevated blood sugar levels. An increased risk of type 2 diabetes is correlated with age, family history, and an unhealthy lifestyle.
Prof. Dr. med. François Pralong, Chief of Endocrinology & Diabetes and Obesity Centre, said: “Diabetes is a significant problem in the GCC, having high numbers of people with the condition. The most prevalent form of diabetes in the GCC is Type 2, associated with obesity, smoking, a sedentary lifestyle, and a high intake of junk food.”
” Diabetes requires comprehensive, interdisciplinary medical care with long-term monitoring and patient involvement in their care plan because of its complexity, diversity, and chronic nature.”
“Patients can keep their diabetes under control once they have made specific lifestyle changes and started suitable medical treatment. Simple lifestyle measures are effective in preventing or delaying the onset of type 2 diabetes.”
Dr. Pralong offers these lifestyle changes to control, prevent, and even reverse type 2 diabetes.
Dr. Pralong added: “While these may seem like enormous lifestyle changes, incorporating healthy eating and exercise into your routine is relatively easy if you start small and set attainable objectives. You will notice the benefits almost immediately, improve your physical fitness and stamina, and have more energy. Also, you will delay the development of type 2 diabetes.”