So you too thought children are not amongst the ones who are affected by diabetes? You’re wrong, because most children are affected by Type 1 diabetes throughout the world. India, has the second highest number of people with diabetes, out of which more than half of them are undiagnosed. We spoke to Dr Sujeet Jha, Director, Institute of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Max Health Care and he gave us an insight into the world of diabetes–The Silent Killer.

Dr Jha said “As Indians, we are more prone to weight gain and when combined with our inherent genetics, it further increases our chances of developing the condition. As a result, we need to be extra careful with our carbohydrate and fat intake.  It is very important to detect diabetes at an early stage as this allows us to intervene sooner and prevent further onset of complications. Diabetes is rightly thought to be a silent killer, capable of affecting any organ in the body from our head to toe.  If you have diabetes mellitus, chances are it will stay with you for the rest of your life.”

What is Diabetes?
The condition exists in two different forms; namely Type 1 and Type 2. Type 1 occurs when the immune system destroys cells in the pancreas called beta cells which are the ones that make insulin. It’s a rare type and was previously known as juvenile diabetes since it targets only young adults and children. However, the age is not restricted and only about 5% of people with diabetes get diagnosed by Type 1. Type 2 diabetes mellitus results from a combination of factors (like an individual’s genetics or their lifestyle choices) and occurs when a person’s own insulin can no longer control the body’s blood sugar levels.

Dr Jha added, “What is even more shocking is close to 46% people in the world suffer from this lifestyle disease and remain undiagnosed.”

Symptoms:
If you experience one or more of the following signs, you might be suffering from diabetes.

” Increased frequency of urination
” Increased thirst
” Increased hunger
” Blurring of vision
” Sudden, unexplained weight loss
” Increase in the occurrence of infections such as boils on the skin

Certain risk factors that can make you more susceptible to developing diabetes are:
” Physical inactivity
” First-degree relative with diabetes
” High body mass index (BMI)
” Hypertension
” Women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)
” Other clinical conditions associated with insulin resistance like severe obesity, acanthosis nigricans–a velvety, hyper-pigmentation of the skin.

Cure:
Even though there is no cure for diabetes but by following these simple things daily, you could make a big difference.
” Eating healthy meals: Sticking to a diabetic meal plan will help, as apart from direct sugar intake, you need to keep a check on the natural sugar that comes along with fruits and vegetables.
” Exercising regularly: Regular walks or mild jogging will help you keep in shape and normalize the blood glucose levels.

If you still have any further health concerns, you must visit the nearest physician the earliest.