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New UK data shows that around five million people in the UK – around one in nine adults – are developing type 2 diabetes. Office for National Statistics (ONS).
Experts also warn that one million people are likely to already be suffering from the condition without knowing it, most of them elderly. Type 2 diabetes can cause long-term damage to the body, so early diagnosis is important. Here’s what you need to know:
How did ONS arrive at this figure?
This estimate of people living with diabetes comes from the UK Health Survey. It randomly selects people in a way that obtains a representative sample of people of different ages, genders, ethnicities, and backgrounds.
To estimate the prevalence of diabetes, 26,751 adults tested from population of englandit is around 57 million.
What is type 2 diabetes?
type 2 diabetes It is a long-term condition that affects how the body can handle glucose (blood sugar).
Due to genetic influences and perhaps living at a higher weight, the body becomes less sensitive to the hormone insulin. Insulin normally helps move glucose from the blood to the muscles where it is stored and available for use. This causes insulin resistance, which can last for decades.
When people develop type 2 diabetes, their body’s ability to produce enough insulin and control glucose begins to decline. Therefore, insulin resistance and reduced insulin production combine to cause hyperglycemia and the diagnosis of type 2 diabetes.
What happens to the body if diabetes is left untreated?
If diabetes is not properly managed, it can cause short-term symptoms such as increased thirst, a frequent need to urinate, and even weight loss and blurred vision.
When blood sugar levels remain high for long periods of time, they can affect nerve function and affect blood flow to vital organs. This can lead to complications such as blindness, kidney disease, heart disease, sensory loss, and foot ulcers.
What are the possible signs of diabetes?
Many people with type 2 diabetes may have no symptoms. Or, if you do have symptoms, they may be vague, such as feeling tired or needing to go to the bathroom in the middle of the night.
It is important to look at risk factors such as weight gain (especially around the middle), having a family history of diabetes, being of Asian or African descent, being male, being over 50 years old, and having high blood pressure. Depending on how many of these there are, Risk factor If you have diabetes, your doctor may recommend regular tests to see if you have diabetes or are at risk of developing diabetes.
How do doctors test for diabetes?
This is usually done through a blood test, most often called HbA1c. Measure your average blood sugar level (blood sugar level) over the past 2-3 months.
If you are over level 48 mmol/molyou may have diabetes.
Diabetes can also be tested by measuring blood sugar levels. A doctor can diagnose diabetes if it exceeds 7 mmol/l (fasting) or 11.1 mmol/l (2 hours after eating) and has symptoms such as thirst, weight loss, and changes in vision.
Can I purchase an at-home diabetes test?
To diagnose diabetes, it is necessary to undergo a laboratory-level test. Glucose meters can be used to test blood sugar levels, but they are not accurate enough to diagnose diabetes.
It is also best to avoid the use of continuous blood glucose monitors ( Snazzy (Currently), these symptoms may appear after eating, so normal and not a sign of diabetes.
How is diabetes treated?
Type 2 diabetes is treated with diet and exercise, but in some cases it can make the diabetes worse. remission and normalizes blood sugar levels.
Medication is often required, but drug treatment varies depending on weight and blood sugar levels.
Usually people start with metforminHowever, additional treatments may be required, such as injectable treatments such as GLP-1 agonists or insulin.
How will your life change if you have diabetes?
Living successfully with diabetes often follows the same principles: trying to become healthier. This includes eating a healthy, varied diet and cutting back on refined carbohydrates and sugary foods and drinks. You also need to be active as much as possible to help your muscles utilize glucose and remove it from your blood. If you want to lose weight, your body’s insulin will work better.
In addition to lifestyle changes, having regular health checkups (including vision tests) and taking medications as directed can help reduce the risk of diabetes developing complications.
What can I do to avoid getting diabetes in the first place?
The best way to reduce your risk of developing diabetes is to eat a healthy diet, be active, and manage your weight. A study in the United States showed that this approach helped people at risk of developing type 2 diabetes lose 7% of their body weight, reducing their risk of diabetes. 58% reduction in diabetes.
