Preventing diabetes means recognising the signs of potential risks and taking steps to mitigate them. Pre-diabetes, a precursor to diabetes, provides an opportunity for early intervention.

Almost 50% of people do not know they have diabetes.

The most known types of diabetes are:

Type 1 Diabetes:

An autoimmune condition, typically diagnosed in childhood or adolescence.

Requires lifelong insulin therapy.

Type 2 Diabetes:

The most common type, often developing in adulthood.

Caused by insulin resistance or inadequate insulin production.

Pre-diabetes precedes type 2 diabetes, with higher-than-normal blood sugar levels.

Type 2 diabetes accounts for more than 90% of all diabetes, It can develop silently, with symptoms that go unnoticed

Spotting Pre-Diabetes Signs:

  • Frequent Urination: Increased restroom visits signal potential pre-diabetes.
  • Excessive Thirst: Unquenchable thirst may be a sign of pre-diabetes.
  • Unexplained Weight Changes: Sudden, unexplained weight fluctuations can indicate pre-diabetes.
  • Persistent Fatigue: A constant lack of energy can be an early symptom.
  • Blurred Vision: Changes in vision, like blurriness, may be related to elevated blood sugar levels.
  • Slow Healing: Delayed wound healing suggests pre-diabetes.

Understand your Risk:

  • Family history: If a parent or sibling has diabetes, you are at a greater risk of having type 1 or 2 diabetes.
  • Weight: Being overweight or obese increases the chance of developing type 2
  • Age: Your risk with age increases, especially over 45
  • Ethnicity: Certain races have a higher risk, including Black Africans and Asians
  • Inactivity: Living a sedentary lifestyle can contribute to weight gain and insulin resistance
  • Gestational Diabetes: Women who have had diabetes during pregnancy need to manage their prevalence well.

Do you know your risk? Take the Type 2 Diabetes risk assessment: https://worlddiabetesday.org/type-2-diabetes-risk-assessment/

Prevention is better than cure. Keep these in mind to limit your chances of developing type 2 diabetes. Focus on:

  • Healthy Diet: Focus on whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, while reducing sugary, processed items and saturated fats (like cream, cheese and butter).
  • Regular Exercise: Engage in 150 minutes of moderate-intensity weekly exercise to help manage blood sugar levels.
  • Weight Management: Achieve realistic weight loss goals, as even a small reduction can reduce the risk.
  • Blood Sugar Monitoring: Regular monitoring helps track changes and take action when necessary.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water aids in controlling blood sugar levels and overall health.
  • Avoid Smoking and Limit Alcohol: Quit smoking and consume alcohol in moderation to reduce the risk.
  • Regular Health Check-ups: Schedule regular check-ups with your healthcare provider for ongoing monitoring and early intervention.

Living with diabetes can be challenging. It involves daily management, including monitoring blood sugar levels, taking medications, and making lifestyle adjustments.

Healthy lifestyle choices are essential to preventing and treating diabetes. Start making changes today! If you have any signs or symptoms of diabetes, consult a doctor or clinic for a diagnosis.

Please reach out to a health counsellor about diabetes and any questions you have about early detection, understanding your risk, and living well.