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10 Diabetes facts you might not know about
Diabetes is a lifelong chronic metabolic disease described by an increase in blood sugar levels. This disease is severe and can lead to death if left untreated.
Here are 10 facts you might NOT know about this disease.
1. Diabetes Is the Leading Cause of Death in The World
One of the biggest threats that diabetes causes is uncontrolled blood sugar levels. If your blood sugar level spikes, it can lead to sudden death. Another way diabetes can lead to death is by damaging tissues and organs over overtime. Damage to blood vessels can lead to amputation and blindness.
Diabetes lowers the quality of life and raises the risk of infection, injuries, and other diseases.
2. The Philippines Has a National Diabetes Awareness Week Every July
November is the designated ‘Diabetes Awareness Month’ in the world. This month informs the public about the diseases and their various forms.
Diabetes contributes to many deaths in the Philippines. To spread awareness, former President of the Philippines, Fidel Ramos, issued a proclamation designating that the last week of July as Diabetes Awareness Week.
3. 1 In Every 14 Adults in The Philippines Have Diabetes
According to data published by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), it highlights that diabetes is contributing to a large number of deaths in the country, with over 37,265 casualties in just 2021. Diabetes is the fourth leading cause of death in the Philippines.
4. Diabetes could lead to more severe COVID-19 illness
According to the Philippines Society of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism (PSEDM), people with diabetes that have been infected with the COVID-19 virus are more likely to have a severe form of the illness. Those patients are more prone to COVID-19 infections- usually, their symptoms are worse compared to other patients without diabetes.
The PSEDM chief added that 20-40% of the admitted COVID-19 patients have diabetes.
5. There Are 4 Types of Diabetes
The two (2) main types of diabetes are Type 1 and 2. These types of diabetes can lead to death when left untreated and unmanaged.
While Gestational Diabetes is more commonly found in pregnant women and those who have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Prediabetes occurs when your blood sugar levels are higher than normal, making your body resistant to insulin.
Check out this article on the different types of diabetes!
The Types of Diabetes and How to Manage Them at Home – MAN Pharma
6. Type 2 Diabetes Is the Most Common Diabetes Type in The World
Type 2 diabetes happens when your blood sugar levels are too high. If you have type 2 diabetes, you will develop a resistance to insulin leading to insulin overproduction. Because of this overproduction, blood sugar will start to collect in your bloodstream.
People aged 45 or older are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes. Weight and genetics are also a contributor to developing type 2 diabetes.
7. You Can Prevent Getting Type 2 Diabetes
Yes! You heard that right! With a proper diet and exercise, you can prevent this deadly disease. Research from the Diabetes Prevention Program suggests losing weight, getting more physical activities, and eating healthier lowers the risk of Type 2 diabetes significantly.
8. Diabetes Can Cause Blindless, Amputation, Kidney Failure, and Other Severe Complications
When left untreated, diabetes can lead to severe illnesses. This disease can cause blindness, harm kidneys, and even affect oral health. Mismanaged diabetes can lead to heart diseases and even stroke, your body may also slow down the healing process, and your wounds may come infected.
9. You Can Still Eat Sweets Even If You Have Diabetes
Having diabetes does not mean that sweets are off-limits. You can still enjoy a scoop of ice cream or even a slice of cake! Talk to your doctor to adjust your diet. Proper communication with your physician is a MUST!
Keep your sweet-tooth cravings to a minimum! There are also diabetic-friendly alternatives out there!
Check out the thediabetesstore.com.ph for all the diabetes-friendly snacks!
10. You Can Still Live a Normal Life Despite Having Diabetes
Though it is scary, don’t let diabetes ruin your life. You can still live a healthy and fun life. You must be consistent with your diet and be mindful of what you do and eat. Moderate-regular exercise and weight loss can help you minimize the symptoms of diabetes and the complications along with it.
Check out this article on how to better manage your diabetes at home!
5 Tips to Better Manage Your Diabetes at Home – MAN Pharma
Sources:
Diabetes affects 1 out of 14 Filipino adults – PSA – The Filipino Times
Diabetes among top killer diseases in PH | Philippine News Agency (pna.gov.ph)
10 Surprising Facts About Diabetes (healthgrades.com)
The Types of Diabetes and How to Manage Them at Home – MAN Pharma
Diabetes could lead to more severe COVID-19 illness | Philstar.com
