Diabetes is a long-term condition in which the body cannot properly regulate blood sugar (glucose), leading to high blood sugar levels, also called hyperglycemia.
When blood sugar is not well controlled, sugar builds up in the blood. Over time, this can damage important organs such as the heart, kidneys, eyes, and nerves.
This condition is becoming more common worldwide. Today, over 830 million people are living with diabetes, and about 252 million people do not know they have it.
This means many people are living with the disease without receiving care.
What Is Diabetes?
Diabetes happens when the body cannot properly use or produce insulin.
Insulin is a natural chemical (hormone) made by the body. It acts like a “key” that helps sugar move from the blood into the body’s cells, where it is used for energy.
When insulin does not work well or is not enough, sugar stays in the blood, causing high blood sugar levels.
Types of Diabetes
Type 1 Diabetes
This type occurs when the body produces little or no insulin.
It often starts in childhood or young adulthood.
People with type 1 diabete need insulin every day to survive.
Type 2 Diabetes
This is the most common type in which the body does not use insulin properly or does not make enough of it. As a result, sugar builds up in the blood.
It is often linked to lifestyle factors such as unhealthy diet, lack of physical activity, and being overweight.
Why this condition matters globally
This condition is increasing rapidly around the world, especially in low- and middle-income countries.
Key facts:
- Over 830 million people are living with diabetes
- About 1 in 9 adults is affected
- Around 252 million people are undiagnosed (meaning they have diabetes but do not know it)
- More than 80% of people with diabetes live in low- and middle-income countries
Common symptoms of this condition
Symptoms may develop slowly and can be missed.
Watch for:
- Frequent urination
- Excessive thirst
- Increased hunger
- Unexplained weight loss
- Feeling very tired
- Blurred vision
- Slow healing wounds
If you notice these signs, visit a health facility early.
What causes this condition?
Several factors increase the risk of diabetes:
- Eating too much sugar and processed foods
- Lack of physical activity
- Being overweight
- Family history of diabetes
- High blood pressure
Changes in lifestyle, especially in urban areas, are increasing diabetes risk in many African countries.
Why Early Detection Is Important
Many people live with diabetes for years without knowing it. During this time, serious damage may already be happening in the body.
If not treated, diabetes can lead to:
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Kidney failure
- Blindness
- Nerve damage (which can cause pain, tingling, or loss of feeling, especially in the feet)
- Foot problems that may lead to amputation
Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent most of these complications.
How to Prevent this Condition?
Type 2 diabetes can often be prevented.
What you can do:
- Eat a healthy and balanced diet
- Reduce sugar and processed foods
- Exercise regularly (at least 30 minutes a day)
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Avoid tobacco and limit alcohol
- Go for regular health check-ups
Even small changes in daily habits can make a big difference.
Treatment and Living With Diabetes
This condition cannot always be cured, but it can be well managed.
Treatment may include:
- Healthy eating
- Regular physical activity
- Medicines or insulin (if prescribed)
- Regular monitoring of blood sugar (checking sugar levels using a small device, often with a finger-prick test)
With proper care, people with diabetes can live long and healthy lives.
When Should You Get Tested?
You should check your blood sugar if you:
- Are overweight
- Have a family history of diabetes
- Are over 40 years old
- Have high blood pressure
Early testing helps detect diabetes before complications develop.
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