World Diabetes day was observed on the 14th 2022 In South Africa, an estimated 4.6 million people have diabetes, with half of them undiagnosed.
Around 95% of these cases are owed to being overweight or obese. Diabetes is often caused by a poor diet, which is high in fat and carbohydrates. Refined, sugary foods can contribute to type 2 diabetes, by causing weight gain. Gestational diabetes is hyperglycaemia that is first recognised in pregnancy. Over three million South Africans are affected by either type 1 diabetes, which is often an inherited condition; or type 2 diabetes, which results when not enough insulin is produced or the body fails to react to it.
Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to kidney failure, cardiac arrest, amputations and stroke, among other complications.
Common signs and symptoms:
- Unusual thirst
- Frequent urination
- Unusual weight loss
- Lack of energy
- Blurred vision
- Frequent or recurring infections
- Cuts and bruises that are slow to heal, boils and itching skin
- Tingling and numbness in the hands or feet.
These symptoms may not all be present as they differ from person to person. If you have these symptoms discuss them with your doctor.
Clinics governed by the North West Department of Health offer diabetes testing & medication.
