Over 70 million people in India are living with diabetes
According to a recent report by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), close to 80 million people in India are living with diabetes, earning the country the title of the “diabetes capital of the world.” The report further projects that the number of people with diabetes in India is expected to surge to 135 million by 2045, indicating an alarming increase of over 16% since 2019.
40 million adults have Impaired Glucose Tolerance (IGT)
The IDF report highlights that in India, 40 million adults have Impaired Glucose Tolerance (IGT), indicating a high risk of developing diabetes. This statistic is the second-highest among all nations worldwide. Additionally, over half (53.1%) of people with diabetes in India are undiagnosed, a concerning issue as untreated diabetes can lead to severe and potentially life-threatening complications like heart attacks, strokes, kidney failure, blindness, and limb amputation. These complications not only reduce the quality of life but also increase healthcare costs and the need for greater access to care. The report thus brings attention to a less discussed aspect of diabetes- its debilitating consequences.
Cardiovascular risk
Having diabetes increases the risk of heart disease as high blood sugar levels can impair the ability of blood vessels to allow for proper blood flow. This condition can also damage the blood vessels and nerves that control the heart. Moreover, individuals with diabetes who also have high blood pressure and high cholesterol are at an even higher risk for heart disease. This underscores the importance of managing not only blood sugar levels but also these other risk factors to prevent heart disease in people with diabetes.
Kidney disease
If you have diabetes, it is crucial to stay well-informed about kidney diseases. Often, the signs of kidney disease are overlooked, and by the time symptoms become serious, the disease may have already progressed to a life-threatening stage. This is especially concerning because kidney disease is a common complication of diabetes, and people with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing this condition. Therefore, it is important for individuals with diabetes to be proactive in monitoring their kidney health and to seek medical attention if any concerning symptoms arise.
Nerve damage
Although diabetes and depression may appear unrelated, there is a biological connection between the two conditions. However, misinformation and myths about diabetes can often lead to feelings of discouragement and frustration in patients, exacerbating the risk of depression. As diabetes already takes a toll on physical health, the additional stress and anxiety associated with managing the condition can also negatively impact mental health. Therefore, it is essential to address the psychological well-being of people with diabetes alongside their physical health to ensure a comprehensive approach to treatment and management.
Diabetes can lead to decreased saliva production
Diabetes can lead to decreased saliva production, resulting in a dry mouth that creates an ideal environment for the growth of harmful bacteria. Additionally, individuals with diabetes are more likely to experience inflamed and bleeding gums, as well as delayed healing of mouth sores. These oral health issues are particularly concerning for people with diabetes, as they can further complicate the management of the condition and potentially lead to more serious health problems. Therefore, it is important for individuals with diabetes to be proactive in caring for their oral health, including regular dental checkups and good oral hygiene practices.
Sexual health
Nerve and blood vessel damage caused by diabetes can reduce blood flow to the sexual organs, leading to a loss of sensation or difficulty in becoming aroused. This can result in a decreased sexual drive for both men and women when blood sugar levels are high. It is essential to recognize and address the impact of diabetes on sexual health to ensure the overall well-being of individuals living with the condition. This can involve seeking medical guidance and exploring strategies to manage blood sugar levels, as well as addressing any related emotional or psychological factors that may be affecting sexual health.
