Fatshimetrie, the online magazine dedicated to health and well-being, addresses a crucial and omnipresent topic in our contemporary societies: diabetes. A disease that affects a growing number of people, now an integral part of our daily lives. Indeed, one in four people over the age of 45 has diabetes, and one in two could be at risk of developing this disease.
Diabetes has become a major cause of death, even surpassing HIV, with multiple complications that can require hospitalization. The damage to blood vessels caused by diabetes can lead to serious problems such as stroke, kidney failure, heart failure, blindness and amputations. These complications now also affect younger adults, affecting their quality of life and ability to work.
World Diabetes Day, celebrated on November 14, highlights the importance of raising awareness about this disease. The theme for the coming years, “Diabetes and Wellbeing”, highlights the need to address this condition holistically, taking into account the wellbeing of patients.
Health services are facing increasing demands due to the prevalence of diabetes. In some health facilities, such as the Mitchells Plain Community Health Centre in Cape Town, there are already 6,000 people being treated for the disease. Despite the scale of the problem, only half of people with diabetes are currently diagnosed.
To reverse the trend of diabetes, it is imperative to give this disease the same importance as that given to HIV, by investing resources and encouraging innovation. Prevention is central to the fight against diabetes, particularly through healthy eating and regular physical activity.
Diabetes risk factors, such as overweight and obesity, are closely linked to our eating habits. Excessive reliance on sugar, cheap starchy foods and fats contribute to weight gain and promote the development of diabetes. It is essential to promote a balanced diet and facilitate access to healthier foods, including vegetables and plant-based proteins.
Educating children about good eating habits and the importance of physical activity is also a key lever to prevent diabetes. Children can raise awareness among their families to adopt healthier behaviors, thus creating a virtuous circle in favor of health.
At the health care level, it is essential to strengthen the skills of health professionals, including nurse practitioners, in the management of diabetes and the necessary lifestyle changes. Equipping primary care teams with resources and expertise must also be a priority to ensure optimal diabetes management.
Finally, it is essential to support people with diabetes throughout their care pathway, encouraging them to proactively manage their disease. Solutions such as group empowerment, digital tools and telemedicine can be effective in supporting patients in their daily diabetes management.
Ultimately, the fight against diabetes requires a holistic approach, involving the whole of society in promoting healthy lifestyles and setting up appropriate health services. Together, we can address this major public health challenge and improve the quality of life of people affected by diabetes.