Learn about the chronic disease that plagues millions of Indians and its underlying causes. Diabetes is a condition that affects the body's production and use of insulin, resulting in high blood sugar levels. Find out the difference between type 1 and type 2 diabetes and how it can lead to serious health complications.
Diabetes: A Global Health Crisis
Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects the body's ability to produce or use insulin, leading to elevated blood sugar levels. This condition can have severe implications for overall health, increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, blindness, kidney failure, and other complications.
Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes
There are two main types of diabetes: type 1 and type 2. Type 1 diabetes, also known as juvenile diabetes, is an autoimmune disorder in which the pancreas produces little or no insulin. Individuals with type 1 diabetes require lifelong insulin therapy to control their blood sugar levels.
Type 2 diabetes, on the other hand, is characterized by insulin resistance, where the body's cells do not respond properly to insulin. This can lead to elevated blood sugar levels and, eventually, to beta-cell failure in the pancreas, resulting in reduced insulin production. Type 2 diabetes can often be managed through lifestyle modifications, such as diet, exercise, and weight loss, but may also require medication or insulin therapy.
Impact in India
India has the second-highest number of people living with diabetes in the world, with an estimated 77 million individuals affected. The prevalence of diabetes in India is particularly high in urban areas and among the affluent population. Factors such as sedentary lifestyle, unhealthy diet, obesity, and ageing contribute to the high rate of diabetes in the country.
Health Complications
Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to a range of serious health complications, including:
Top 5 FAQs on Diabetes
1. What are the early signs of diabetes?
Common early signs of diabetes include increased thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, blurred vision, fatigue, and slow-healing sores.
2. Can diabetes be prevented?
Type 1 diabetes cannot be prevented, but type 2 diabetes can be reduced by maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular physical activity, and consuming a balanced diet.
3. How is diabetes diagnosed?
Diabetes is diagnosed through a blood test that measures blood sugar levels. An HbA1c test, which measures average blood sugar levels over the past 3 months, is also commonly used.
4. What is the World Diabetes Day?
The World Diabetes Day is observed on November 14th each year to raise awareness of diabetes and its complications worldwide.
5. What are the latest advancements in diabetes treatment?
Research into diabetes treatment is ongoing, with advancements such as continuous glucose monitoring devices, closed-loop insulin pumps, and stem cell therapy showing promise in improving blood sugar control and preventing complications.
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