Lancet study sheds light on global burden of diabetes
How soon can prediabetes transition to diabetes?
The vast majority of the cases will be type 2 diabetes
The study has found that of the two types of diabetes, type 1 and type 2 diabetes, the prevalence of type 2 diabetes will be higher in the next three decades. Type 1 is an autoimmune disease where the body can not produce insulin and it is seen in children mostly. Type 2 diabetes is a condition where there is a gradual insulin resistance and this is commonly seen in adults; this is a preventable disease.
Why is this study relevant?
There is a need to be careful about this prediction on diabetes because of the several complications that are associated with it. People with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing ischemic heart disease, stroke, loss of vision and foot ulcers. Due to lack of awareness and lack of proper treatment, many people succumb to these complications making it extremely important to learn about this estimation.
What are the driving factors of diabetes?
As per the study, the two common factors that increase the risk of diabetes are age and obesity. "Major behavioural shifts and changes in food systems contributing to high BMI include greater availability of shelf-stable and high-calorie products; limited financial and proximal access to healthy food options; increased consumption of ultra-processed foods and fat, sugar, and animal products; and reductions in physical activity related to global work and transportation trends," the researchers have pointed out.
Identifying prediabetes can cut down the chances of diabetes
Prediabetes is when a person is not diabetic but is likely to be soon. Off late, researchers have been emphasizing on prediabetes and its role in reducing the risk of diabetes.
"Apart from some genetic factors, lifestyle factors may lead to prediabetes and diabetes. They include diet, exercise and general activity, sleep and stress. Weight gain and obesity play an important role," says Dr. Rahul Baxi, Consultant Diabetologist, Bombay Hospital. “Consumption of excessive amounts of refined carbohydrates, sugar in food and drinks, juices, ultra-processed foods are the unhealthy diet habits that increase the risk of diabetes,” he says.
What can be done to minimize the chances of diabetes?
Globally, health agencies and experts are urging in unison to adopt healthy lifestyles. "High-risk individuals should be encouraged to increase the fiber intake and consume whole grain foods. One should aim to reduce long sedentary hours and take small breaks instead of sitting for long hours, regular activity like walking should be added to daily routine," suggests Dr. Baxi.
WHO recommends at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise each day and urges people to keep a healthy body weight.
People should also be careful of the common symptoms of diabetes which are: feeling thirsty, fatigue, losing weight unintentionally, vision loss, and frequent urination.