The number of people with diabetes in the world has increased to 4x since 1980. The incidence rate is increasing worldwide in countries with low and middle income. The cause of diabetes is complex, but the number increases as the number of overweight, obese, and lack of activities increases.

All types of diabetes can cause complications in many limbs, and increase the risk of young death. In 2012 diabetes is a direct cause of 1.5 million deaths worldwide. Diabetes and its complications can be avoided with a healthy diet, regular physical activity, keeping the ideal weight, and avoiding smoking.

In April 2016, the WHO published a global report on diabetes, with a view to awareness of the importance of action to reduce exposure to risk factors from type 2 diabetes and improve access and quality of care to people suffering from all forms of diabetes.

Here are 10 Facts about diabetes from WHO

  1. Approximately 422 people around the world suffer from diabetes
    The incidence of diabetes continues to increase since 3 decades, along with the increasing rate of obesity and overweight.
  2. Diabetes is the number 1 cause of death in the world
    Diabetes is a direct cause of 1.5 million cases of death worldwide, with an additional 2.2 million causes of death in the same year also caused by higher than normal blood sugar levels. The risk of heart disease and blood vessels also increases with increasing blood sugar.
  3. There are 2 types of diabetes
    Type 1 diabetes is characterized by not producing insulin hormone by the body, whereas type 2 diabetes is caused by ineffective insulin work. Type 2 diabetes can be prevented, while the causes and risks of type 1 diabetes are not known with certainty.
  4. Type 3 diabetes is gestational diabetes
    Type 3 diabetes is gestational diabetes that occurs in pregnant women, characterized by an increase in blood sugar above normal during pregnancy. Women with gestational diabetes have an increased risk of complications in pregnancy and childbirth. Children with gestational diabetes also have a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes as adults.
  5. People with type 2 diabetes more than type 1 diabetes
    Type 2 diabetes is the most common case of diabetes in the world. Wide waist circumference and a high body mass index (BMI) are associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. Cases of type 2 diabetes in children who previously rarely also increased worldwide.
  6. People with diabetes can live longer and stay healthy if detected and managed properly
    Management of diabetes therapy consists of: the control of blood sugar with a combination of diet, physical activity and if necessary drugs; To control blood sugar and fat levels to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and other complications; As well as routine screening for damage to eyes, kidneys and feet.
  7. Diagnosis and early intervention are the beginning to live better in people with diabetes
    The longer the diabetics are not diagnosed and treated, the worse the patient's health. Basic diagnostic devices such as blood sugar monitors should always be available, especially in primary health care facilities.
  8. The majority of diabetic deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries
    In general, primary health care in low-income countries has difficulty accessing diagnoses and medicines (including insulin) to help diabetics manage their diabetes.
  9. Diabetes is one of the main causes of blindness, amputation and kidney failure
    All types of diabetes lead to complications in many limbs and the risk of premature death. The major complications include heart attack, stroke, renal failure, amputation (due to infusion, ulcers), blindness and nerve damage.
  10. Type 2 diabetes can be prevented
    Regular exercise with moderate intensity for 30 minutes every day, a healthy diet can drastically reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.


source : who.int

dr. Divan Fernandes