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Writer's pictureOluchi Nora

The Growing Burden of Diabetes and How Prevention Might Stem the Tide

Eneh Oluchi Nora, Jadetimes Staff

E.O. Nora is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Health news

 
The Growing Burden of Diabetes and How Prevention Might Stem the Tide
Image Source : Getty images/Stockphoto

Diabetes is actually a chronic health disorder one has to face while living within a body processing blood sugar. According to recent health reports, the prevalence of type 2 diabetes keeps rising globally, with millions of new cases annually. This not only presents a higher risk for the worst complications such as heart diseases, kidney failures, and nerve damage but includes economic effects on healthcare systems.


Risk Factors Associated


It is basically caused by lifestyle and genetic factors, major contributors being obesity, physical inactivity, and poor dietary habits. The development risk increases in older adults and in the presence of a family history of diabetes. Regular screening for the disease is necessary, as most individuals remain undiagnosed until the onset of serious complications.


Prevention Through Lifestyle Changes


Fortunately, the majority of type 2 diabetes cases can be prevented. The most recent scientific evidence highlights the power of minor, sustained lifestyle interventions. For instance, increased physical activity, such as brisk walking or cycling for at least 150 minutes weekly, can go a long way in reducing diabetes risk. A diet low in processed foods and sugar-laden drinks but heavy in whole grains, lean proteins, and vegetables is also key to staying healthy.

Community and Policy Interventions


Public health measures are also indispensable in the prevention of the disease. For example, the NDPP of the United States provides evidence-based interventions through counseling on healthy eating and physical activity. These programs show that when given the support they need, people can make meaningful, long-lasting lifestyle changes that reduce their risk for type 2 diabetes by up to 58 percent.


On a larger scale, governments and health organizations are striving to create environments that promote healthy living standards. Examples include increasing access to and availability of healthy food and safe places to be physically active, as well as imposing taxes on sugary drinks in the hope of reducing consumption.


The Need for Awareness and Education


Awareness about diabetes itself plays a very crucial role in the prevention and management of the disease. Educational campaigns help people recognize early signs and symptoms such as increased thirst, frequent urination, and unexplained weight loss. In addition to that, regular check-ups and blood glucose testing are encouraged, especially in high-risk individuals.


While this is truly a serious challenge on a global level, diabetes remains a controllable condition through specific interventions at both the personal level and within the communities, and as one of policy. We have the power to help lighten this burden through active prevention and education, thus changing millions of lives throughout the world.



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