World Diabetes Day is celebrated every year on November 14th, as a global awareness campaign to raise the importance of diabetes awareness, prevention, and management.

It also provides a platform to support the millions of people living with the chronic disease, their families, and caregivers. The theme of World Diabetes Day 2017 is “Women and Diabetes – Our Right to a Healthy Future”.

It aims to raise awareness about the fact that women, who make up around 50% of people living with diabetes globally, face particular challenges in access to diabetes-related health information, essential medicines, and care.

Understanding Diabetes and Its Impact on Women

Diabetes is a metabolic disorder that occurs when the body cannot produce enough insulin or when the insulin produced is not being used efficiently.

This leads to high levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood, which can cause serious health complications over time. Women with diabetes face a unique set of challenges that are often different from those of men. Some of the challenges are:.

1. Higher Risk of Heart Disease

Women with diabetes have an increased risk of heart disease, which is the leading cause of death in women with diabetes.

High blood glucose levels can damage blood vessels and nerves that control the heart and blood vessels, leading to heart disease and stroke. High levels of triglycerides (a type of fat) and low levels of HDL (the good cholesterol) also increase the risk of heart disease in women with diabetes.

2. Complications During Pregnancy

Women with diabetes who are pregnant have a higher risk of complications, such as miscarriage, stillbirth, and birth defects.

High blood glucose levels during pregnancy can also lead to macrosomia, a condition in which the baby is larger than usual, which can complicate delivery and increase the risk of injury to the infant or the mother. Women with diabetes also have a higher risk of developing gestational diabetes, a type of diabetes that occurs during pregnancy and goes away after delivery.

3. Increased Risk of Infections

Women with diabetes have an increased risk of bacterial and fungal infections, especially in the urinary tract and reproductive organs.

High blood glucose levels can impair the function of white blood cells, which are responsible for fighting infections. Women with diabetes are also more likely to experience vaginal infections, which can cause discomfort and increase the risk of more serious infections.

4. Depression and Anxiety

Women with diabetes have a higher risk of depression and anxiety compared to men with diabetes or women without diabetes. Managing diabetes can be stressful and overwhelming, especially for women who may be caring for children or elderly family members.

Depression and anxiety can make it harder to manage diabetes, leading to poor blood glucose control and increased risk of complications.

5. Sexual Dysfunction

Women with diabetes may experience sexual dysfunction, including decreased sexual desire, vaginal dryness, and difficulty achieving orgasm. High blood glucose levels can lead to nerve damage and reduced blood flow, which can affect sexual function.

Women with diabetes may also experience a loss of intimacy and connection with their partner due to the stress and emotional toll of managing diabetes.

Prevention Strategies for Women with Diabetes

Preventing diabetes or managing it effectively requires a combination of lifestyle changes, medication, and regular monitoring. Some strategies that can help women with diabetes maintain optimal health are:.

1. Healthy Eating Habits

Eating a balanced diet that is rich in whole grains, vegetables, fruits, lean protein, and healthy fats can help control blood glucose levels and reduce the risk of complications.

Limiting processed and sugary foods and drinks can also help prevent weight gain and improve overall health.

2. Regular Physical Activity

Engaging in regular physical activity, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming, can help lower blood glucose levels, improve cardiovascular health, and maintain a healthy weight.

Women with diabetes should aim for at least 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week, spread over at least 3 days per week.

3. Medications and Insulin Therapy

Women with diabetes may need medications and/or insulin therapy to control blood glucose levels.

It is essential to work with a healthcare provider to determine the best treatment plan and to monitor blood glucose levels regularly to adjust the dosage as needed.

4. Health Screenings and Check-Ups

Women with diabetes should undergo regular health screenings and check-ups to detect any health complications early on. This can include eye exams, foot exams, blood pressure checks, cholesterol tests, and kidney function tests.

Early detection and treatment can help prevent the progression of complications and improve overall health outcomes.

5. Support and Education

Women with diabetes can benefit from joining support groups, seeking counseling or therapy, or connecting with other women living with diabetes.

Educating oneself about diabetes and its management can also help empower women to make informed decisions about their health and to advocate for their rights to access healthcare and services.

Conclusion

World Diabetes Day 2017 is an opportunity to raise awareness about the challenges faced by women with diabetes and to take action to prevent and manage the disease.

It is essential to recognize the unique needs of women with diabetes and to work towards providing equal access to healthcare, education, and resources. By taking steps towards prevention and management, women with diabetes can lead healthy, fulfilling lives and enjoy their right to a healthy future.