‘Stress bad for diabetics’

Experts: Sugar levels worsen rapidly when problems arise

PETALING JAYA: Stress worsens a diabetic’s blood sugar level more rapidly than non-diabetics, say experts.

Tropicana Medical Centre nephrologist Dr Soehardy Zainudin said stress was one of the most common factors in further deteriorating diabetic conditions.

“Work stress and personal problems can cause blood sugar levels to rise. It could also worsen cholesterol levels,” he said at the “Diabetes 4 Laypersons” healthcare fair held at the IPC shopping centre here yesterday.

The fair, which was held in conjunction with World Diabetes Day, also showcased products, equipment and treatments to prevent, detect and manage the disease.

National Diabetes Institute (Nadi) executive director Prof Datuk Mustaffa Embong said stress management was crucial for diabetic patients.

“A rapid rise in blood sugar levels due to stress means their diabetic condition could spin out of control, leading to depression and other symptoms” he added.

Dr Soehardy said the International Diabetes Federation predicted a 55% increase in the current 300 million diabetic cases worldwide by 2025.

“More and more people need dialysis due to diabetic kidney diseases. As of last year, there are over 25,000 people in Malaysia undergoing regular dialysis,” he said.

Free blood sugar and cholesterol tests were offered.

Sunway Resort and Spa sales director Jeffrey Hanafiah, 46, was a visitor who took the 10-minute test.

“It revealed that I have minor obesity issues. I was advised on how to avoid becoming diabetic,” he said.

Checking up on health: Jeffrey (in black, background) undergoing a health screening while his wife Alfie Rina (foreground) takes a blood test at the halthcare fair. With them are sons (from left) Mikhail, six, Ameer, three, and Aniq Danial, nine.