Ref: CHB/Flash/2007/38                                             Date: July 02, 2007

CHB NEWS FLASH

From the recent screening programs held in our Jamaats in Africa, CHB has observed with deep concern on the rising number of diabetes cases in our community, unless we take preventative measures immediately, we shall end up having many people with variety of complications of diabetes.

Please educate your children from now so that our new generation is made aware from the childhood, perhaps we missed this one out during our childhood due to lack of awareness or knowledge resulting into lifetime complications, make sure you educate your children on this high risk disease.

CHB Appeal: If you are 35 years of age and above, please get yourself checked up now, don’t wait.

Following is brief information about Diabetes Type 2.

What is type 2 diabetes?

Your body gets energy by making glucose from foods like bread, potatoes, rice, pasta, milk and fruit. To use this glucose, your body needs insulin. Insulin is a hormone that helps your body control the level of glucose (sugar) in your blood. Type 2 diabetes is a disease in which your pancreas does not produce enough insulin, or your body does not properly use the insulin it makes.

If you have type 2 diabetes, glucose builds up in your blood instead of being used for energy.

Is diabetes serious?

If left untreated or improperly managed, diabetes can result in a variety of complications, including:

·         Heart disease

·         Kidney disease

·         Eye disease

·         Nerve damage

·         Erectile dysfunction (ED), a common sexual problem in men with diabetes.

The first step in preventing or delaying the onset of these complications is recognizing the risk factors, as well as signs and symptoms of diabetes.

Fortunately, good diabetes care and management can prevent or delay the onset of these complications.

Being:

·         A member of a high-risk group (Asian, South Asian or African descent)

·         Overweight (especially if you carry most of your weight around your middle)

Having:

·         A parent, brother or sister with diabetes

·         Health complications that are associated with diabetes

·         Given birth to a baby that weighed more than 4 kg (9 lb)

·         Had gestational diabetes (diabetes during pregnancy)

·         Impaired glucose tolerance or impaired fasting glucose

·         High blood pressure

·         High cholesterol or other fats in the blood.

It is important to recognize, however, that many people who have type 2 diabetes may display no symptoms.

Can you prevent diabetes?

Scientists believe that lifestyle changes can help prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes. A healthy meal plan, weight control and physical activity are important prevention steps.

How is diabetes treated?

People with diabetes can expect to live active, independent and vital lives if they make a lifelong commitment to careful diabetes management, which includes the following:

Physical Activity:

Regular physical activity helps your body lower blood glucose levels, promotes weight loss, reduces stress and enhances overall fitness.

Managing your diabetes:

Here are some steps you can take to manage your diabetes and help maintain your overall health and wellness – today and in the future:

• Don’t smoke
• Check your blood glucose levels regularly and keep them in your target range
• Keep your cholesterol and other blood fats in your target range
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Keep your blood pressure close to target level
• Take your medication as prescribed
• Manage your stress effectively
• Follow a balanced meal plan
• Be physically active
• Take care of your feet
• Regularly visit your dentist, eye care specialist (every one to two years) and doctor.  

“Community’s health – CHB’s priority”