Diabetes ‘no death sentence’ if managed

With World Diabetes Day looming on Tuesday, a pharmaceutical company wants women to become aware of the illness’ risk factors and take steps to improve their and their families’ health.

“Up to 70% of cases of type 2 diabetes can be prevented through lifestyle interventions such as better nutrition and increased physical activity,” said Nicola Lister, medical director and chief scientific officer at pharmaceutical company Novartis South Africa.

Diabetes mellitus, or diabetes, is a health risk that continues to grow for both men and women globally. According to the International Diabetes Federation, there are over 199 million women living with diabetes worldwide – but this number will increase to 313 million by 2041.

According to research, diabetes is the ninth leading cause of death in women globally, causing about 2.1 million deaths annually. Two out of every five women with diabetes are of reproductive age.

In SA, more than 2.3 million people have diabetes but about 61% of them are undiagnosed. The prevalence of diabetes in rural dwellers is increasing rapidly, with the Asian and coloured populations having the highest number.

The risk of developing diabetes, as well as the risk of premature death, can be reduced through proper management, said Lister. “Empower yourselves with knowledge and make lifestyle changes to improve your health.” – Citizen reporter