Diabetes Mellitus is a major health concern that silently affects millions worldwide. According to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), approximately 537 million adults, or 1 in 10, are living with diabetes, and the number is expected to rise to 643 million by 2030 and 783 million by 2045 if preventive measures are not implemented.
Malaysia has the highest rate of diabetes in the Western Pacific region and one of the highest in the world [1]. A 2019 national survey in Malaysia revealed that 3.6 million adults aged 18 and above were diagnosed with diabetes, with 49% (3.7 million) of cases going undiagnosed [2]. Hence, it is crucial to recognize the symptoms, understand the risk factors, and explore management strategies to achieve better health.
What is Type 2 Diabetes?
Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition that happens due to two major factors:
i) Inadequate insulin production by the pancreas
ii) Poor response of cells to insulin, leading to reduced uptake of sugar
As a result, excess sugar accumulates in the bloodstream, leading to high blood sugar levels.
Symptoms of Diabetes
Type 2 Diabetes is also known as a silent disease because the symptoms develop slowly and most people won’t notice them. However, if you experience any of the symptoms shown in the photo below, you are encouraged to visit the nearest clinic and get your blood sugar levels tested.
Risks Factors
Understanding the risk factors associated with Type 2 Diabetes is essential for early detection:
Management of Type 2 Diabetes
Getting diagnosed and receiving the right treatment is important for reducing the risk of serious complications such as diabetic nephropathy (kidney disease), retinopathy (eye disease), neuropathy (nerve damage), cardiovascular diseases and diabetes-related foot conditions.
To date, there is no cure for diabetes. Therefore, it is important to prevent or delay the onset of complications through proper management which includes the following:
- Healthy Eating
Choose low-fat, low-calorie, high-fiber foods and to prioritize the consumption of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Regular Exercise
Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous aerobic exercise each week.
- Weight Loss
Losing as little as 5% of total body weight may help in better control of blood sugar levels
- Medications or Insulin Therapy
The prescription of medications or insulin therapy may be required if blood sugar levels remain uncontrolled despite lifestyle and diet changes
- Blood Sugar Monitoring
Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels as per doctor’s advice is important to ensure it is maintained within the healthy range
- Natural Supplements
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References:
1) Ganasegeran, K., Hor, C. P., Jamil, M. F. A., Loh, H., Noor, J. M., Hamid, N. A., Suppiah, P. D., Manaf, M. R. A., Ch’ng, A. S. H., & Looi, I. (2020). A systematic review of the economic burden of Type 2 diabetes in Malaysia. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health/International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 17(16), 5723. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17165723
2) The Star News. (2019, July 29). Malaysia has 3.6 million diabetics, says Dzulkefly. The Star. https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2019/03/27/malaysia-has-36-million-diabeticssays-dzulkefly
