Diabetes is a growing health concern around the world. According to the International Diabetes Federation, 463 million people globally were living with diabetes in 2019, and this number is projected to increase to 700 million by 2045.

Diabetes is a disease that affects how your body uses glucose, the main source of energy for your cells. When you have diabetes, your body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or doesn’t use insulin properly, leading to high levels of glucose in your blood.

This can lead to a range of health problems, including an increased risk of other diseases.

The Link Between Diabetes and Other Diseases

People with diabetes have a higher risk of developing a range of other health problems, including:.

Cardiovascular Disease

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in people with diabetes.

High blood glucose levels can damage blood vessels and nerves that control the heart and blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other related conditions.

Kidney Disease

High blood glucose levels over time can damage the blood vessels in your kidneys, leading to diabetic nephropathy. This can eventually lead to kidney failure, requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant.

Eye Disease

Diabetes can damage the tiny blood vessels in the retina, leading to diabetic retinopathy. This can cause vision loss and blindness if not treated early.

Nerve Damage

High blood glucose levels can damage nerves throughout the body, leading to diabetic neuropathy. This can cause numbness, tingling, and pain, particularly in the feet and hands.

Increased Risk of Infection

People with diabetes have a higher risk of infections, particularly in the skin and urinary tract, due to damage to blood vessels and nerves that affect the body’s ability to fight off infections.

Cancer

There is some evidence to suggest that diabetes is associated with an increased risk of certain cancers, such as pancreatic, liver, and endometrial cancer.

Reducing Your Risk

While having diabetes increases your risk of developing other health problems, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:.

Manage Your Blood Glucose Levels

The most important thing you can do to reduce your risk of diabetes-related complications is to manage your blood glucose levels.

This involves monitoring your blood glucose regularly, taking medications as prescribed, and making lifestyle changes such as eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly.

Quit Smoking

Smoking is a risk factor for many diseases, including cardiovascular disease and cancer. Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your health.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Being overweight or obese is a risk factor for many diseases, including diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise can help reduce your risk.

Conclusion

Diabetes is a growing factor in disease risk around the world. People with diabetes are at increased risk of developing a range of other health problems, including cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, and eye disease.

However, there are steps you can take to manage your blood glucose levels and reduce your risk of complications. By making healthy lifestyle choices, you can reduce your risk of developing other health problems and live a full and healthy life.