Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide.
Based on the National Health and Morbidity Survey 2019, there are approximately 3.9 million Malaysians living with diabetes.
1 in 5 adults in the country, giving Malaysia the title of “Sweetest Nation in Asia”.
If left unmanaged, it can lead to various complications that can significantly impact your health and quality of life. In this article, we will explore the risks and prevention of diabetes complications.
WHO is at risk for developing diabetes complications?
🔸 Poorly controlled blood sugar levels - High blood sugar levels can cause damage to your blood vessels, nerves, and organs.
🔸 High blood pressure - Diabetes can increase your risk of developing high blood pressure, which can lead to further complications.
🔸 High cholesterol levels - Diabetes can increase your risk of developing high cholesterol levels, which can lead to heart disease and stroke.
🔸 Smoking - Smoking can further increase your risk of developing complications.
WHAT are the common diabetes complications?
Cardiovascular diseases
Diabetes can increase your risk of developing cardiovascular disease, which includes heart disease and stroke.
Nerve damage
High blood sugar levels can damage your nerves, leading to symptoms such as numbness, tingling, and pain.
Kidney damage
Diabetes can damage your kidneys, leading to kidney disease and possible kidney failure.
Eye damage
High blood sugar levels can damage your eyes, leading to vision loss and possible blindness.
HOW can we prevent diabetes complications?
1️⃣ Control your blood sugar levels
Maintaining healthy blood sugar levels is essential in preventing complications. Follow your healthcare provider's recommendations for managing your blood sugar levels, including some dietary and lifestyle changes, medication consumption/injection and monitoring your levels regularly.
2️⃣ Maintain a healthy lifestyle
Eating a balanced healthy diet, exercising regularly, increasing physical activity and managing your weight can help prevent complications.
3️⃣ Quit smoking
Quitting smoking is essential in reducing your risk of developing complications.
4️⃣ Get regular check-ups
Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider can help detect and manage any complications early. Follow a regimen to monitor your weight, blood glucose levels, activity level and blood pressure.
5️⃣ Manage other health conditions
Managing other health conditions, such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels, can help reduce your risk of developing complications.
Diabetes complications can significantly impact your health and quality of life. By understanding the risk factors and taking steps to prevent complications, you can reduce your risk of developing these issues. Control your blood sugar levels, maintain a healthy lifestyle, quit smoking, get regular check-ups, and manage other health conditions to prevent diabetes complications.
Remember, prevention is 🔑, and taking proactive steps to manage your diabetes can help you lead a healthier life.
References:
Ministry of Health Malaysia. National Health & Morbidity Survey 2019: Non-Communicable Diseases, Healthcare Demand and Healthcare Literacy. Available on http://iptk.moh.gov.my/images/technical_report/2020/4_Infographic_Booklet_NHMS_2019_-_English.pdf.
Mafauzy M, Zanariah H, Nazeri A, Chan SP. DiabCare 2013: A cross-sectional study of hospital based diabetes care delivery and prevention of diabetes related complications in Malaysia. The Medical Journal of Malaysia. 2016 Aug;71(4):177-185.