Can Diabetes Be Prevented? Doctor Lists Measures To Prevent This Looming Health Crisis

Diabetes mellitus, a prevalent long-term condition characterised by elevated blood glucose levels has now escalated into a critical global health crisis. The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) warns that over 10% of the adult population (20-79 years) is currently living with diabetes with nearly half unaware of their condition. India, already the diabetes capital of the world with 100 million diabetics is projected to see this number soar to over 124 million by 2045.

In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr. Sabeer.A.Rasheed, MBBS, Dip in Diabetes explained the typs of diabetes and listed measures to prevent this health issue.

Types Of Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes, a condition where insulin-producing cells in the pancreas malfunction, leading to insulin deficiency is diagnosed in childhood or early adulthood and is not linked to lifestyle factors. As a result, strategies for preventing Type 1 diabetes remain a challenge. However, the more common Type 2 diabetes, accounting for about 90% of all cases, is largely influenced by lifestyle and environmental factors. Type 2 diabetes is the condition when the body does not produce enough insulin and becomes insulin resistant. However, studies show that Type 2 diabetes can be prevented or delayed through lifestyle interventions, offering hope and empowerment to those at risk.

Preventive Measures For Diabetes

Healthy Diet

Diet is the cornerstone for preventing Type 2 diabetes. A well-balanced diet lowers the risk of diabetes. The Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP), a landmark study by the National Institutes of Health outlined that people who followed a low-fat, low-calorie diet had a reduced risk of diabetes onset.

Physical Activity

Regular exercise is another critical component in diabetes prevention. Physical activity helps lower blood sugar levels by maintaining a healthy weight and improving insulin sensitivity. The DPP study showed that participants who engaged in moderate-intensity exercise reduced their risk of developing Type 2 diabetes by 58%.

Weight Management

Weight appropriate with age and gender reduces the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Excess body fat, particularly abdominal fat is linked to insulin resistance. The DPP study found that losing 5-7% of body weight, especially around the abdomen, significantly reduced the risk of developing diabetes.

Regular Monitoring

While lifestyle modifications are beneficial in preventing Type 2 diabetes, monitoring blood sugar levels is not just important, it's essential. Early detection of prediabetes serves as a powerful motivator for timely intervention, enabling individuals to make adjustments that can prevent the progression of prediabetes to diabetes.

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