Diabetes is a chronic disease affecting millions of people worldwide. Unfortunately, many people are unaware they have it until they begin to experience symptoms. That’s why early screening is critical in detecting and managing diabetes.

To help spread awareness about diabetes in the community, the Penteli Municipality is presenting free blood sugar measurements and a diabetes information speech.

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects the body’s ability to regulate glucose (sugar) levels in the blood. There are two main types of diabetes:.

Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes, also known as juvenile diabetes, is usually diagnosed in children and young adults.

It’s an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks and destroys the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. People with type 1 diabetes must take insulin injections or use an insulin pump to manage their blood sugar levels.

Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes, also known as adult-onset diabetes, is more common and usually develops in adults over the age of 45.

In type 2 diabetes, the body doesn’t use insulin properly (insulin resistance), or the pancreas doesn’t produce enough insulin. It can be managed with lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and losing weight, as well as medication and insulin therapy.

Why Is Early Screening Important?

Early screening is essential because diabetes can cause serious health complications if left untreated.

High blood sugar levels can damage the small blood vessels in the eyes, kidneys, and nerves, leading to vision loss, kidney failure, and neuropathy (nerve damage). It can also increase the risk of heart disease and stroke, as well as other health problems.

Who Is at Risk for Diabetes?

Several risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing diabetes, such as:.

Family history of diabetes
Being overweight or obese
Sedentary lifestyle
Age (over 45 years old)
Race/ethnicity (African Americans, Hispanic/Latinos, Asian Americans, and Native Americans are at higher risk)
High blood pressure or cholesterol levels

What Are the Symptoms of Diabetes?

The symptoms of diabetes can vary from person to person, but some common signs include:.

Frequent urination
Excessive thirst
Blurred vision
Fatigue
Slow-healing wounds or infections
Tingling, numbness, or pain in the hands or feet

How Can You Prevent or Manage Diabetes?

There are several ways to prevent or manage diabetes:.

Eat a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats
Exercise regularly (at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week)
Lose weight if you are overweight or obese
Quit smoking
Monitor your blood sugar levels regularly if you have diabetes
Take medications or insulin therapy as prescribed by your healthcare provider

Join Us for Free Blood Sugar Measurements and Diabetes Information Speech

If you are interested in learning more about diabetes, or if you would like to get your blood sugar levels checked, we invite you to join us for a special event presented by the Penteli Municipality.

At the event, healthcare professionals will be on hand to perform free blood sugar measurements and provide information about diabetes prevention and management.

You’ll also have an opportunity to ask questions and learn from others who have experience with diabetes.

Don’t wait until it’s too late to take control of your health. Join us for this informative and educational event on diabetes. We look forward to seeing you soon!.