World Diabetes Day - Some Reminders
On this day, 14 November - the '
World Diabetes Day' - we asked
Chat GPT some questions
Given below are our questions and the answers given by
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DISCLAIMER : This article is written by an AI tool, and is not written by a human.
But, given below the article is also a comment, from our Internal Medicine Specialist,
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Why is World Diabetes Day celebrated?
World Diabetes Day is celebrated on November 14th each year to raise awareness about diabetes, a chronic disease that occurs when the pancreas is no longer able to make insulin, or when the body cannot make good use of the insulin it produces. Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood sugar.
Why is it celebrated on this date, November 14th?
The day was introduced by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1991 in response to the increasing prevalence of diabetes around the world.
The date was chosen to coincide with the birthday of Sir Frederick Banting, a Canadian scientist who, along with Charles Best, is credited with the discovery of insulin in 1921.
What are the aims of the World Diabetes Day?
1. Raise awareness: The day provides an opportunity to increase public understanding of diabetes, its causes, symptoms, complications, and management.
2. Advocate for better care: It serves as a platform to advocate for improved access to healthcare, education, and resources for people living with diabetes.
3. Promote prevention: World Diabetes Day emphasizes the importance of lifestyle choices, such as maintaining a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and avoiding tobacco, in preventing type 2 diabetes.
4. Unite the global diabetes community: The day fosters a sense of solidarity among people living with diabetes, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and the general public in addressing the challenges posed by diabetes.
Events and activities on World Diabetes Day may include awareness campaigns, educational programs, health screenings, and various initiatives to promote diabetes prevention and management. The hope is that by raising awareness and promoting understanding, there will be a positive impact on the prevention, treatment, and management of diabetes worldwide.
What exactly is Diabetes??
Diabetes is a chronic medical condition that occurs when the body cannot properly regulate blood sugar (glucose). Glucose is the primary source of energy for cells, and its levels in the blood need to be carefully controlled. Insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, plays a crucial role in this process.
What are the types of Diabetes?
There are several types of diabetes, but the two most common ones are:
Type 1 Diabetes: In this form of diabetes, the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. As a result, the body produces little to no insulin. Type 1 diabetes is typically diagnosed in childhood or adolescence, and people with this condition require insulin injections to survive.
Type 2 Diabetes: This is the more common form of diabetes, accounting for the majority of cases. In type 2 diabetes, the body either does not produce enough insulin or does not use it effectively (insulin resistance). It is often associated with lifestyle factors such as poor diet, lack of physical activity, and obesity. While it can occur at any age, it is more commonly diagnosed in adults.
What are the common symptoms of diabetes?
Common symptoms of diabetes include:
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Frequent urination: Excessive thirst and urination are common signs, as the body tries to eliminate the excess glucose through urine.
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Increased hunger: Despite eating, people with diabetes may still feel hungry because the cells are not receiving the glucose they need for energy.
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Unexplained weight loss: This can occur in type 1 diabetes, where the body starts breaking down muscle and fat for energy.
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Fatigue: Feeling tired and lacking energy is a common symptom.
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Blurred vision: High levels of glucose in the blood can affect the lens of the eye, leading to blurred vision.
- Slow-healing wounds: Diabetes can affect the body's ability to heal, leading to slow healing of cuts and wounds.
Long-term complications of diabetes can include heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, nerve damage, and vision problems. Managing diabetes involves maintaining blood sugar levels within a target range through a combination of medication, diet, exercise, and, in the case of type 1 diabetes, insulin therapy. Regular monitoring and medical care are essential to prevent complications and maintain a good quality of life for those with diabetes.
How does diabetes occur?
In Type 1 Diabetes:
Immune System Attack: The immune system mistakenly identifies the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas as foreign invaders and attacks them.
Insulin Deficiency: As a result of the immune system attack, the pancreas is unable to produce enough or any insulin.
High Blood Sugar: Without sufficient insulin, glucose cannot enter cells for energy, leading to a buildup of glucose in the bloodstream, causing high blood sugar levels.
In Type 2 Diabetes:
Insulin Resistance: The body's cells become resistant to the effects of insulin, or the pancreas doesn't produce enough insulin to meet the body's needs.
Insufficient Insulin: Even though the pancreas may produce insulin, it's not enough to overcome the insulin resistance, leading to an imbalance between insulin production and the body's requirements.
High Blood Sugar: Similar to Type 1 diabetes, the result is elevated blood sugar levels because glucose cannot enter cells effectively.
While the mechanisms differ, the end result in both types of diabetes is elevated blood sugar levels, which, if not properly managed, can lead to various health complications over time.
What should those affected by Diabetes do?
Managing diabetes involves a combination of lifestyle changes, medication (if prescribed), and regular monitoring. It's important for individuals with diabetes to work closely with their healthcare team to develop a personalized plan. Here are some general recommendations for managing diabetes:
Blood Sugar Monitoring:
- Regularly monitor blood glucose levels as advised by your healthcare provider.
- Keep a record of your readings to identify patterns and trends.
Medication Adherence:
- Take medications as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
- If you have questions or concerns about your medications, consult your healthcare team.
Healthy Eating:
- Follow a balanced and nutritious diet.
- Monitor carbohydrate intake and distribute it throughout the day.
- Limit the intake of processed foods, sugary beverages, and high-fat items.
Regular Physical Activity:
- Engage in regular exercise, as recommended by your healthcare provider.
- Aim for a mix of aerobic exercises (e.g., walking, swimming) and strength training.
Weight Management:
- Achieve and maintain a healthy weight.
- Weight management is often crucial for controlling blood sugar levels.
Regular Health Check-ups:
- Schedule regular check-ups with your healthcare team, including your primary care physician, endocrinologist, and other specialists as needed.
Foot Care:
- Inspect your feet daily for cuts, blisters, or signs of infection.
- Wear comfortable and appropriate footwear.
Stress Management:
- Practice stress-reducing techniques, such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga.
Quit Smoking:
- If you smoke, seek support to quit, as smoking can worsen diabetes-related complications.
Limit Alcohol Intake:
- If you choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation and be mindful of its impact on blood sugar levels.
Education and Support:
- Educate yourself about diabetes and its management.
- Seek support from healthcare professionals, diabetes educators, and support groups.
Regular Eye Exams:
- Schedule regular eye examinations to monitor and manage any diabetes-related eye issues.
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DISCLAIMER : The above article is written by an AI tool, and is not written by a human.
But, given below is also a comment from our Internal Medicine Specialist,
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Dr Edwin:
But, we could add the third most common type of diabetes. That's Gestational diabetes.
It is a form of diabetes occurring for the first time during pregnancy. The good side of this type of diabetes is that it usually reverses back to normal levels once the baby is delivered.
The flip side is that it’s a warning sign for diabetes later in life.
Following a strict diet, exercise and maintaining an optimal body weight in these patients can help delay diabetes.
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