Getting the Facts on Type 2 Diabetes

The American Diabetes Association recently estimated that 57 million people in the USA are living with pre-diabetes – also known as impaired glucose tolerance – a  condition that often has no symptoms, but if left untreated has the potential to cause Type 2 diabetes (T2 diabetes) and cardiovascular problems.

The figures are similar in other Western countries, proportionate to the population.  The sad fact is, that people are developing pre-diabetes at an earlier age than in the past, with even obese children developing the condition.

“Type 2 diabetes is usually diagnosed later in life, but due to the increasing weight of children, we’re seeing it more in younger patients,” said Dr Hank Schwartz, director of community pharmacy practice at the University of the Sciences in Philadelphia, USA.

“Type 2 diabetes develops when the body does not produce enough insulin or the cells ignore the insulin. Studies show that with lifestyle changes, a person can delay or prevent the onset of this type.” Dr. Schwartz identified steps to take to minimise your risk of developing pre-diabetes or T2 diabetes.

Identify Your Risk of T2 Diabetes

You should check with your doctor about getting tested for diabetes if you have one or more of these risks factors:

• overweight
• a family history of diabetes
• a history of gestational diabetes
• high blood pressure
• high cholesterol levels
• or are in a high-risk ethnic group (African American, Hispanic/Latino, American Indian, Asian American, Indigenous Australian, Torres Strait Islander or  Pacific Islander)

Symptoms of T2 Diabetes

While pre-diabetes/impaired glucose tolerance generally has no symptoms, talk to your doctor if you experience  any of these symptoms of T2 diabetes:

• increased thirst
• dry mouth
• increased appetite
• irregular fatigue or tiredness
• frequent urination
• blurred vision

There may be other causes for these symptoms, such as reactions  to medication, but it’s wise to get them checked out.

Reducing the Risk of T2 Diabetes

Dr. Schwartz blamed poor diet, high in saturated fats, sugar and salt, and a sedentary lifestyle for the fact that “millions of people are living with type 2 diabetes, but many more are unaware that they are at a high risk of developing the disease.” He was referring to the US, but similar factors are to blame for the high rates of T2 diabetes in Australia, Canada and the UK.

He quoted several studies that show T2 diabetes can be prevented or delayed – even for people with pre-diabetes – by simple lifestyle changes. These changes include:

• eating a low fat diet
• losing weight
• maintaining a body mass index (BMI) of between 10-26
• exercising regularly for a minimum of 30 minutes at a time.

While genetics and cultural background were major factors in the risk of developing diabetes, Dr Schwartz said making lifestyle changes, and sticking to them, would greatly lower the T2 diabetes risk.

You might also like to read Six Steps to a Healthier You, Diet & Exercise Can Reduce T2 Diabetes Risk and Mediterranean Diet Lowers Risk of Diabetes.