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Understanding Diabetes: Essential Facts and Tips

Did you know there are 1.5 million Australians living with diabetes, and the prevalence of this disease is increasing? Approximately 120,000 new cases are diagnosed each year, with an estimated 400,000 Australians currently at risk of developing diabetes. Type 2 diabetes can often be prevented or delayed through adopting healthy lifestyle habits.

With National Diabetes Week occurring from the 14th to the 20th of July, it’s an opportune time to raise awareness about this widespread condition affecting many Australians.

 

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes mellitus, commonly known as diabetes, is a health condition characterised by high blood sugar levels (hyperglycaemia) due to the body’s inability to convert glucose into energy effectively.

Insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, normally regulates blood glucose levels. Diabetes occurs when the pancreas doesn’t produce enough insulin or when the body becomes resistant to insulin, hindering its effectiveness.

There are several types of diabetes: Type 1, Type 2, gestational diabetes (elevated glucose levels during pregnancy), and pre-diabetes (elevated blood glucose levels not meeting the diabetes threshold).

 

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Diabetes?

Common symptoms include:

  • Feeling tired
  • Unexplained weight loss (Type 1) or gradual weight gain (Type 2)
  • Slow-healing cuts
  • Itchy skin or frequent skin infections
  • Blurred vision
  • Excessive thirst or hunger
  • Increased urination

Type 1 diabetes often manifests quickly, while Type 2 diabetes may present no symptoms or go unnoticed for an extended period.

 

Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. While genetics and environmental factors likely contribute, the exact cause remains unknown.

 

Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes develops gradually over years as the body’s insulin becomes less effective in managing blood glucose levels. Initially, the pancreas produces more insulin, but over time its effectiveness diminishes.

Risk factors for Type 2 diabetes include poor diet, lack of exercise, previous gestational diabetes, family history of diabetes, and being overweight.

 

Tips for a Healthy Lifestyle

Managing diabetes starts with a healthy diet, ideally guided by a qualified health professional.

Early diagnosis is  important to reduce the risk of complications. There are people who have diabetes who don’t know they have it which is why it is important to speak with your GP about your risk of diabetes and screening if appropriate. Your GP can also discuss how to lower your risk of developing diabetes.

If you are experiencing symptoms of diabetes or have concerns about your risk make an appointment with your Family Doctors Plus GP. Early treatment helps reduce serious complications. Call us on 07 3357 8192 or book online.

 

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