Sweet Killer - Diabetes

Diabetes is often called the "sweet killer" because it is a metabolic disease caused by the combined effects of genetic and environmental factors, with hyperglycemia as its main characteristic. The main pathophysiological basis of diabetes is the absolute or relative deficiency of insulin in the body, or accompanied by insulin resistance.

If blood sugar levels in diabetic patients are not effectively controlled for a long period, it can damage multiple systems in the body and even lead to serious consequences such as myocardial infarction, stroke, and blindness. Raising public awareness of diabetes is therefore urgently needed.

What are the dangers of diabetes?

The dangers of diabetes manifest primarily in two aspects:

First, acute complications such as diabetic ketoacidosis and hyperosmolar hyperglycemia caused by acute hyperglycemia can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.

Second, chronic complications resulting from long-term hyperglycemia include macrovascular and microvascular complications. Macrovascular complications mainly refer to atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) and heart failure, with ASCVD encompassing coronary heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, and peripheral vascular disease. Microvascular complications include diabetic retinopathy, diabetic nephropathy, and diabetic neuropathy. These vascular complications can lead to serious consequences such as myocardial infarction, stroke, blindness, kidney failure, and amputation, and are the leading causes of disability or death in diabetic patients.

How to prevent diabetes?

For the general population, a balanced diet, weight control, moderate exercise, salt restriction, quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption, and maintaining a balanced mental state can help prevent diabetes. For individuals at high risk of diabetes, it is advisable to manage overweight/obesity and calorie intake, increase physical activity, and undergo early screening, depending on their individual circumstances.

It is recommended to have your fasting blood glucose tested annually starting at age 40. Individuals with prediabetes should have their fasting blood glucose or 2-hour postprandial blood glucose tested every six months. If your fasting blood glucose is ≥6.1 mmol/L or your 2-hour postprandial blood glucose is ≥7.8 mmol/L, you should have your glucose metabolism assessed at a medical institution.

How should people with diabetes manage their own health?

1. Healthy Living

Maintain a balanced diet, reduce your intake of refined carbohydrates (such as white rice, pasta, biscuits, etc.) and sugary drinks, engage in appropriate exercise, quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption, and maintain a regular sleep schedule.

2. Cooperate with Treatment

Visit medical institutions regularly for check-ups, take medication as prescribed, and prevent diabetic complications. If you experience adverse drug reactions or need to adjust your medication, communicate with your doctor promptly.

3. Proactive Management

Work with your medical team to develop a health management plan, regularly monitor your blood sugar, blood pressure, blood lipids, and weight; undergo annual screening for chronic complications, including foot problems, retinopathy, and kidney disease.

4. A Calm Mindset

Maintaining an optimistic mood and a positive attitude helps stabilize blood sugar. If your condition changes, actively adjust your mindset while cooperating with treatment.

5. Seek Support

When you encounter difficulties controlling your blood sugar, talk to family, friends, or fellow patients to seek understanding and support.