Today, approximately 589 million people worldwide are affected by diabetes. In Saudi Arabia, around 20% of the population aged 40 and above have diabetes, while in Lebanon, the number of affected people is about 439,700.
On World Diabetes Day, the Lebanese Society of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Lipids (LSEDL) held a press conference to highlight the importance of prevention and early intervention in diabetes management.
Causes and Symptoms of Diabetes
Diabetes occurs when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or the body cannot effectively use the insulin.
Key symptoms include:
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Excessive thirst and dry mouth
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Frequent urination
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Increased hunger
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Fatigue
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Blurred vision
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Slow wound healing
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Numbness or tingling in hands and feet
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Recurrent infections
Complications of High Blood Sugar
High blood sugar gradually damages blood vessels, increasing the risk of serious complications, especially in type 2 diabetes:
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Cardiovascular disease (2 to 4 times higher risk than non-diabetics)
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Chronic kidney disease (affecting ~40% of type 2 patients)
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Diabetic retinopathy (can lead to vision loss)
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Neuropathy
Importance of Maintaining Healthy Blood Sugar Levels
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Regular check-ups are essential and should monitor blood pressure, cholesterol, and lipids, not just blood sugar levels.
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Early intervention and proper treatment improve quality of life and reduce the risk of complications.
Treatment Options for Type 2 Diabetes
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Medication options are now diverse and advanced, tailored to each patient’s health condition.
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Modern treatments include GLP-1 injections, which help regulate blood sugar, reduce appetite, promote weight loss, and protect kidney and leg arteries—but they must be used under medical supervision.
The Role of a Healthy Lifestyle
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Maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding obesity and smoking
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Regular physical activity
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Healthy diet: plenty of vegetables, moderate fruits, lean proteins, and limiting saturated fats, processed foods, and refined sugars
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The diet for diabetics is similar to that recommended for anyone aiming for overall health
Prediabetes Stage
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Prediabetes can be reversed with a healthy diet, exercise, and weight management.
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Developing diabetes is not inevitable if proper lifestyle measures are taken seriously.
Final Words on World Diabetes Day
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Time is critical in diabetes management; early detection and timely intervention are essential.
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Following a structured meal schedule, healthy eating, and adhering to medical guidance reduces risks of low blood sugar and serious complications.
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Proper prevention and management of diabetes are vital for a healthier life.
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