Diabetes: A National Epidemic

Diabetes Mellitus is a serious condition that we all must have heard and over the past few years, it has just grown. Right as we write this, we are reminded that Pakistan has become the epicentre and the very hub of diabetes which means that 2 out of 10 are at the risk of developing polygenic disorder. 

Here is why we think that it is a serious issue. 

What Is Diabetes? 

#WhatIsDiabetes

To put it simply for all of you, then polygenic disorder is a chronic medical condition that is characterized bun high levels of glucose which is also sugar in the blood of a body. This happens when the body is not producing any insulin and this isn’t enough. 

Now what is insulin? Insulin is a hormone that is made by the pancreas that allows cells to absorb glucose from the blood to use energy. 

How Many Types Of Diabetes Are There? 

There are three main and most common types of diabetes; 

Type 1 Diabetes: Now in this condition, we know that it is an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system attacks itself and also destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. People with type 1 diabetes need to take insulin daily to manage their blood glucose levels. 

Type 2 Diabetes: This is by far the most common type in Pakistan. In this type, the body becomes resistant to insulin and therefore doesn’t produce any insulin. This type of polygenic disorder is also linked to sedentary and obesity and we tend to see this in people who do nothing. 

Gestational Diabetes: This type of polygenic disorder only develops in women and that too during pregnancy and usually disappears after giving birth. However, if go unchecked it can develop type 2 polygenic disorder later in life. 

How Can We Identify Diabetes? 

#HowCanWeIdentifyDiabetes

Like every disease in the world, there are some symptoms of polygenic disorder and this means that its early signs can help you identify this disease. Following are some important symptoms, 

• Increased thirst and hunger 

• Frequent urination 

• Unintended weight loss

• Fatigue 

• Blurred Vision 

• Slow Healing sores 

• Frequent infections 

What Happens If Diabetes Go Unchecked? 

Several things can go wrong if your polygenic disorder is not kept checked. This means that if it goes unchecked you are most probably on the way to experiencing heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, eye problems, nerve damage, dental problems, and mental health issues like depression. 

How Can It Be Managed? 

There are a few things that should be kept in mind while treating polygenic disorder and this means that firstly your glucose level should be monitored daily, secondly healthy diet and regular physical activity are done every day, medications should be a priority and lastly regular medical checkups to manage and control complex and critical conditions is avoided.