Did you know that more than 200 million people in the world have diabetes? Also, did you know the World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates this figure will double by the year 2030?
This is a scary figure, especially when the KZN Health Department claims that 80% of diabetes deaths occur in low and middle-income countries. Because of the striking number of people with diabetes in the world, November 14 is earmarked as World Diabetes Day.
World Diabetes Day became an official United Nations Day in 2006. But what makes November 14 so special? It is marked every year on 14 November, the birthday of Sir Frederick Banting, who co-discovered insulin along with Charles Best in 1922.
The theme for World Diabetes Day this year is The Family and Diabetes. This is because diabetes affects every family around the globe.
But what is diabetes?
There are two forms of diabetes, which is Type 1 and Type 2. In most cases, people have Type 2, which is largely preventable through regular physical activity, a healthy and balanced diet, and the promotion of healthy living environments.
Regular medication and a proper diet are required when a person has diabetes. By not taking the respective meds and following the correct lifestyle, a person can face an array of illnesses and negative side effects.
This includes heart and kidney disease, blindness and amputation.
How do you know if you have diabetes? The symptoms for diabetes include:
- Constant fatigue
- Constant thirst and needing to urinate constantly
- Blurred vision
- Weight loss
If you have any of these symptoms, be sure to visit your doctor for medical advice.
While there is no cure for diabetes, it is not a death sentence. Leading a healthy lifestyle can ensure you lead a full and active life.
