DIABETES: AWARENESS CAMPAIGN DR. AUGUSTINE OBARO Diabetes is a growing global health threat, a threat to long life and joyful living..

Diabetes Report Card. Diabetes affects over 360 million world wide. This is about 8.5% of the world’s population. It’s the 7th leading cause of death.. More than six million Nigerians have diabetes. Diabetes kills more Nigerians than HIV/AIDS.

What is Diabetes?. Diabetes mellitus is a condition in which the amount of glucose (sugar) in the blood is too high because the body cannot use it properly. Glucose comes from the digestion of starchy foods such as bread, rice, cassava, potatoes, yams and other sweet foods. It is also produced by the liver in response to body need.

Types of diabetes There are two main types of diabetes, referred to as type 1 and type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. Type 1 diabetes happens when the body is not able to make any insulin. Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body doesn't produce enough insulin to function properly, or the body’s cells don't react to insulin.

Types of diabetes Type 1: Not common. (about 5%) No insulin production by the body Starts at young age. Need Insulin treatment Type 2: Commonest type (95%) Not enough Insulin, or Insulin not working. Usually appears after the age of 25 Runs in families. overweight increases risks. Treatment with weight control, healthy diet, tablets and sometimes Insulin injections.

Risk factors for type 2 diabetes Over 40 years old Males > Females have a relative with the condition are overweight or obese are of African-Caribbean origin. high blood pressure, a heart attack or a stroke

Diabetes symptoms None or mild symptoms. feeling very thirsty. urinating frequently, particularly at night feeling very tired all the times. weight loss and loss of muscle bulk. Other symptoms can include; itchiness, cramps, blurry vision, skin infection.

Complications Heart disease Stroke Nerve damage Eye damage Kidney disease Foot problems Sexual dysfunction (ED)

Women with diabetes may experience: a reduced sex drive reduced pleasure from sex vaginal dryness a reduced ability to orgasm pain during sex Miscarriage, stillbirth and Premature delivery

Preventive Care Practices Educating About Diabetes. Yearly Blood Sugar testing. Get more physical activity. Reduce sugar intake. Reduce salt in your diet to 6g or less a day. Eat three regular meals a day. Get plenty of fibre and grains. Cut down on the fat particularly saturated fats. Skip the sugary drinks, and choose water. Limit red meat and avoid processed meat. Eat more fruit and vegetables. Drink alcohol in moderation only.

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