Providenciales, TCI, November 14, 2016 – Monday November 14th the world observes World Diabetes Day. This year’s theme is “Eye on Diabetes” and is as timely as any point of focus on this non communicable chronic disease. It is noted worldwide that half of the people who are living with diabetes remain untested and undiagnosed. This would mean that in any one place the number of people who have been screened and are aware of their condition represent only half of the community who are actually living with diabetes. This is a dangerous figure generally, yet when put in the context of our society it paints an even grimmer picture.
Diabetes is basically of two types, namely type one and type two. Type one occurs in less than ten percent of people diagnosed and sets in early in life, often in children or teens. Type two is the more prevalent and happens during adulthood. The body either doesn’t have enough insulin produced or is unable to use it effectively. Insulin regulates our blood sugar levels and keeps our body’s internal environment at a balanced level so we function without damaging our cells.
Our numbers currently show that we have diagnosed some 1506 people living with diabetes. Yet according to the calculation made before it means that we are actually looking at numbers closer to 3012. Due to the nature of diabetes which maintains either abnormally high or abnormally low blood sugar levels, there is tissue damage which takes place that changes one’s life in a very permanent way. Many who are diabetic experience partial or complete loss of vision, loss of limps, liver and even kidney damage. The longer it takes to diagnose the condition the longer we can have damage done to our bodies that may be irreversible.
Our goal must be to keep an eye on diabetes by taking the steps we know that will diagnose early, help those diagnosed to treat with the condition effectively and effectively manage once a plan has been developed. For those who believe that it’s inevitable because they have had a family history of it, we urge even greater vigilance. Though there are links to hereditary factors that point to likelihood, it’s not an absolute and inevitable condition. With proper screening to detect, proper diet to keep our health in check and maintenance of exercise and good activity levels we can avoid, or stave off diabetes for a long time.
Join with us as we observe world diabetes day and keep the focus on keeping our community well taken care of. Let’s live a healthier lifestyle that keeps the ability to avoid this debilitating condition or treat with it once detected early well within our grasp. Encourage family members and friends to stay vigilant and supportive as we keep an eye on diabetes.
For further information on diabetes contact the clinic nearest you or your Health Promotion and Advocacy Unit on 3382772.
