iabetes is a group of common endocrine diseases characterized by sustained high blood sugar levels. Its occurence is due to either the pancreas not producing enough insulin, or the cells of the body becoming unresponsive to the hormone's effects. Major symptoms include thirst/dry mouth, polyuria ( exvessive urination), weight loss, and blurred vision. If left untreated, the disease can lead to various health complications, including disorders of the cardiovascular system, eye, kidney, and nerves. Untreated or poorly treated diabetes accounts for approximately 1.5 million deaths every year worldwide. The United Nation estimates a prevalence of 5.77% observed in our meta-analysis research and it suggests that 11.2 million Nigerians (1 out of every 10 adults) are living with the disease. There are different types of diabetes: Diabetes Mellitus, Diabetes Insupidus, Gestational Diabetes etc. These 3 are the most commonly found. Some other classification refers to the types of diabetes as type 1 and type 2, though other forms also exist. The most common treatment for type 1 is insulin replacement therapy (insulin injections), while anti-diabetic medications (such as metformin and semaglutide) and lifestyle modifications can be used to manage type 2. Gestational diabetes, a form that arises during pregnancy in some women, normally resolves shortly after delivery. It is very important for everyone to go for a fasting blood sugar test to know if you are diabetic or at risk of becoming diabetic. PREVENTIVE MEASURES. Maintaining a normal body weight, engaging in physical activity, and eating a healthy diet, Higher levels of physical activity (more than 90 minutes per day) reduces the risk of diabetes by 28%. Diet modifications have also proven to be effective in helping to prevent diabetes include maintaining a diet rich in whole grains and fiber, and choosing good fats, such as the polyunsaturated fats found in nuts, vegetable oils, and fish. Limiting sugary beverages and eating less red meat and other sources of saturated fat can also help prevent diabetes. Tobacco smoking is also associated with an increased risk of diabetes and its complications, so quitting smoking can be an important preventive measure as well. As the world marks WORLD DIABETES DAY today, i enjoin everyone to eat less of carbohydrate foods like garri, semo, akpu etc and do more of fruits and vegetables. Ensure you exercise moderately and avoid junks. Wishing you all a diabetes free life..

At PreDiagnosis International, we are in a race against time to Reach, Rescue and help Manage the health of Nigerians living with Diabetes and other diseases. Through our grassroot community advocacy and screening programs, we are able to help detect early cases of hyperglycemia and others who are at risk of becoming diabetic. Go for a regular blood sugar check, dont wait until its complicated.

Join the campaign for a diabetes free world and make the world a happier place.