World Diabetes Day is a global awareness campaign focusing on diabetes; it is commemorated every year on 14 November.
This is an important healthcare event because the number of diabetes cases – particularly Type 2 diabetes – keeps rising every year.
Diabetes is a disease that occurs when your blood glucose, also called blood sugar, is too high. In Singapore, the condition affects about 10.5% of residents, with higher rates observed in Malays and Indians, says Dr Melvyn Wong, Family Physician and Consultant, Raffles Medical.
“The prevalence has been increasing and is projected to affect over a million residents by 2050,” he adds.
To understand the risk factors and find out how to prevent and manage diabetes, read on.
1. Unhealthy lifestyle habits may raise your risk of Type 2 diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is a metabolic condition. Dr Wong says that it is often triggered by an unhealthy lifestyle – specifically a poor diet and a lack of physical activity – although genetics can increase one’s susceptibility.
“Many people with Type 2 diabetes have a family history of the disease, but lifestyle factors remain a key influence in its development,” he adds.
If you’re overweight or obese, you are also at a high risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.
“Excess body fat, particularly around the abdomen, increases insulin resistance,” says Dr Wong.
“This means that sugar cannot be efficiently absorbed by cells, thereby causing blood sugar levels to rise. Over time, this resistance can lead to Type 2 diabetes, which is why weight management is essential for prevention.”
2. Differences between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes
Dr Wong explains the differences between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes:
“Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition that usually starts in childhood, where the body produces little or no insulin.
“Type 2 diabetes, which is much more common in Singapore, occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or produces insufficient amounts of insulin. Type 2 diabetes is strongly linked to lifestyle factors and accounts for the vast majority of diabetes cases in the country.”
3. Diabetes is not just about having high blood sugar
Instead, it’s part of a broader metabolic dysfunction, says Dr Wong. This can signal or accompany other conditions, such as obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, fatty liver disease, and cardiovascular issues – all linked to an unhealthy lifestyle.
“By improving your diet, increasing physical activity, and going for regular screenings, you can maintain your metabolic health and prevent a range of chronic conditions,” he points out.
4. Certain health complications are associated with Type 2 diabetes
If not well managed, Dr Wong warns that Type 2 diabetes can lead to serious complications. These include:
- Cardiovascular disease: This increases your risk of heart attack and stroke
- Neuropathy: Nerve damage that can cause pain or loss of sensation, often in the feet
- Kidney disease: This can progress to kidney failure
- Eye damage: Retinopathy may lead to vision loss
- Foot issues: Poor blood circulation can cause ulcers and may require amputation of your foot or feet
5. You can prevent and manage the disease
Adopting healthy lifestyle habits is key. Dr Wong recommends:
- Eating a healthy diet comprising whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats
- Getting regular physical activity – approximately 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week
- Managing your weight, as being at a healthy weight reduces insulin resistance
- Undergoing regular screenings: Fasting blood glucose, HbA1c, and fasting insulin tests are able to catch early signs of diabetes
- If you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes, taking medication like metformin or insulin can help you manage your blood sugar levels.
6. Get tested and screened to assess your diabetes risk
Dr Wong explains what’s involved:
Blood sugar and insulin tests:
- Fasting blood glucose test: Taken after an eight-hour fast, this test measures baseline blood sugar levels. A fasting level of 100 to 125 mg/dL suggests prediabetes, and a level of 126 mg/dL or higher indicates diabetes.
- Fasting insulin test: This test measures insulin levels after fasting and can provide insights into insulin resistance. Elevated fasting insulin can be an early sign of insulin resistance, which often precedes Type 2 diabetes.
- HbA1c test: This blood test provides an average of your blood sugar levels over the past two to three months. A level of 5.7 to 6.4 per cent suggests prediabetes, while 6.5 per cent or higher indicates diabetes.
- Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT): This test measures your blood sugar before and two hours after consuming a glucose solution. Levels above 200 mg/dL after two hours confirm diabetes.
Additional health checks:
- Blood pressure and cholesterol monitoring: Since high blood pressure and elevated cholesterol can worsen your diabetes risk, regular checks are essential.
- Self-monitoring at home (for those diagnosed): Using a glucose metre helps you track daily blood sugar levels and guides lifestyle or medication adjustments.
Annual screenings for complications:
- Eye exams: Diabetes can lead to eye issues like diabetic retinopathy, so annual eye screenings are vital.
- Kidney function test: This simple urine test checks for early signs of kidney damage.
- Foot health checks: Regular foot exams can help detect ulcers and infections, especially in those diagnosed with diabetes.
“If you are at risk of developing diabetes or have a family history of the disease, take action today,” Dr Wong urges.
“Schedule a screening that includes fasting insulin and glucose tests to better understand your risk and take control of your health. Early intervention can prevent or manage diabetes effectively, and this simple step can significantly impact your long-term wellness.”
Note: Please consult your healthcare professional if you have concerns about diabetes.
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