Diabetes is a disease that affects millions of people worldwide.

According to the International Diabetes Federation, approximately 463 million adults between the ages of 20-79 years had diabetes in 2019, and this number is expected to increase to 700 million by 2045. Diabetes is a chronic condition that occurs when the body cannot produce or effectively use insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels.

Types of Diabetes

There are two main types of diabetes:.

Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease that usually develops in children and young adults. In this type of diabetes, the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.

As a result, people with type 1 diabetes need daily injections of insulin to regulate their blood sugar levels.

Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is the most common type of diabetes, affecting about 90% of all people with diabetes. It usually develops in adults over the age of 40, although it is becoming more common in younger people.

In type 2 diabetes, the body does not use insulin effectively and may also not produce enough insulin. This leads to high blood sugar levels, which can cause serious health problems.

Risk Factors for Type 2 Diabetes

Several factors increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, including:.

1. Family History of Diabetes

If someone in your family has diabetes, you are more likely to develop the disease. This is because certain genes that increase the risk of diabetes can be passed down from parents to their children.

2. Age

The risk of developing type 2 diabetes increases as you get older. This is because older adults are more likely to be overweight or obese, and also because the body becomes less able to produce and use insulin as we age.

3. Obesity

Being overweight or obese is a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes. This is because excess body weight makes it harder for the body to use insulin effectively.

4. Physical Inactivity

Lack of physical activity is another major risk factor for type 2 diabetes. Exercise helps the body use insulin more effectively and can reduce the risk of developing the disease.

5. Unhealthy Diet

A diet high in processed foods, sugary drinks, and refined carbohydrates can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes. This is because these foods cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels, which can lead to insulin resistance over time.

6. Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy. Women who have had gestational diabetes are at higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.

7. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

PCOS is a common hormonal disorder that affects women of reproductive age. Women with PCOS are at higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes because the condition is associated with insulin resistance.

Diabetes Complications

Diabetes can cause a range of complications if it is not effectively managed. Some of the most common complications of diabetes include:.

1. Cardiovascular Disease

Diabetes increases the risk of developing cardiovascular disease, including heart attack and stroke. High blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels and nerves that control the heart and blood vessels.

2. Kidney Damage

Diabetes can damage the kidneys over time, leading to kidney disease. High blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels and filter systems in the kidneys, leading to poor kidney function.

3. Blindness

High blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels in the eyes, leading to diabetic retinopathy. This condition can cause vision loss and blindness if it is not detected and treated early.

4. Neuropathy

Diabetes can damage the nerves in the body, causing peripheral neuropathy. This condition can cause pain, tingling, and numbness in the hands and feet, as well as other parts of the body.

5. Amputations

Diabetes can increase the risk of developing foot ulcers and other foot problems. In severe cases, these problems can lead to amputation of the foot or leg.

Diagnosing Diabetes

Diabetes can be diagnosed through a blood test that measures blood glucose levels. The American Diabetes Association recommends that adults over the age of 45 get tested for diabetes every three years.

However, people with risk factors for diabetes may need to be tested earlier and more frequently.

Preventing and Managing Diabetes

There are several steps you can take to prevent or manage diabetes:.

1. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Losing weight and maintaining a healthy weight is one of the most effective ways to prevent and manage diabetes. This can be achieved through a healthy diet and regular exercise.

2. Exercise Regularly

Regular exercise can help the body use insulin more effectively and can reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.

3. Eat a Healthy Diet

A healthy diet can help you maintain a healthy weight and can also reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Focus on whole, unprocessed foods, and aim to eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.

4. Manage Stress

Stress can cause blood sugar levels to rise, so it is important to find ways to manage stress effectively. This can include things like meditation, yoga, or spending time in nature.

5. Get Regular Check-Ups

Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider can help detect diabetes early and can also help you manage the disease effectively. Your healthcare provider can also help you develop a personalized diabetes management plan.

The Bottom Line

Diabetes is a serious disease that can have long-term health consequences.

However, there are steps you can take to prevent and manage diabetes, including maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, managing stress, and getting regular check-ups with your healthcare provider. If you have risk factors for diabetes or have symptoms of the disease, it is important to get tested and seek medical attention as soon as possible.