By: Dado Njie
4th-Year Medical Student
Are you living with diabetes, or do you have a loved one struggling to navigate its complexities?
Diabetes is a silent epidemic, affecting over 537 million adults globally as of 2021, with projections indicating an increase to 643 million by 2030 and 783 million by 2045. It caused approximately 6.7 million deaths globally in 2021. In Africa, about 24 million adults live with diabetes, with a regional prevalence of 4.5%—and more than half of these cases go undiagnosed. West Africa records a prevalence between 3.5% to 6.5% in countries like Nigeria, Ghana, and The Gambia, where urbanization, poor diet, and sedentary lifestyle are key drivers. In The Gambia alone, the prevalence stands at 5.5% (approximately 54,000 people) among adults aged 20–79 in 2024, according to the International Diabetes Federation. Diabetes continues to be a leading cause of kidney failure, amputations, and blindness. Alarmingly, many individuals are unaware of their diabetic status. However, gaining knowledge about the condition can significantly help prevent further damage or even avoid diabetes altogether.
Breaking Down Key Terms
To better understand diabetes, let’s define some important terms:
– Chronic: A disease that lasts a long time or constantly recurs.
– Metabolic disease: A group of conditions that affect how the body uses food to produce energy.
– Insulin: A hormone that regulates blood glucose (sugar) levels.
– Pancreas: An organ that produces insulin.
– Immune system: The body’s defense system against infections and diseases.
What Is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disease where blood glucose levels are abnormally high. It can affect individuals of all ages. There are three main types of diabetes:
- Type 1 Diabetes
Also known as insulin-dependent diabetes, this autoimmune condition occurs when the immune system attacks and destroys insulin-producing cells for unknown reasons. It affects up to 10% of diabetics and is usually diagnosed in children and young adults.
- Type 2 Diabetes
Also called insulin resistance diabetes, this form arises when the body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or the cells fail to respond to insulin properly. It is the most common type and primarily affects adults, although children are increasingly being diagnosed.
- Gestational Diabetes
This form occurs during pregnancy and usually resolves after delivery. However, affected individuals have an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.
Who Is at Risk?
Understanding risk factors helps in prevention. These include:
– Family history of diabetes
– Increasing age
– Obesity
– Previous gestational diabetes
– High blood pressure (hypertension)
Causes of Diabetes
Different types have different causes:
– Type 1: Autoimmune disorders, genetics, and some environmental factors like viral infections.
– Type 2: Mainly due to insulin resistance triggered by obesity, poor diet, inactivity, hormonal imbalances, genetic predisposition, and certain medications.
– Other causes: Diseases or injuries affecting the pancreas and some genetic mutations.
Signs and Symptoms
Early detection saves lives. Watch out for:
– Excessive thirst and dry mouth
– Constant hunger even after meals
– Frequent urination
– Blurred vision
– Unexplained weight loss
– Slow wound healing
Complications
Uncontrolled diabetes may lead to:
– Heart attacks
– Stroke
– Kidney failure
– Amputations
– Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)
– Hearing loss
Prevention Tips
While some forms of diabetes can’t be prevented, lifestyle changes can lower your risk:
– Eat a balanced diet
– Exercise regularly
– Avoid smoking and alcohol
– Get quality sleep
– Manage stress
Final Thoughts
Being diagnosed with diabetes is life-changing, but not a death sentence. With proper care, you can live a healthy life. Visit your healthcare provider regularly and follow their advice.
References
International Diabetes Federation. (2021). IDF Diabetes Atlas, 10th edition. https://www.diabetesatlas.org
World Health Organization. (2021). Diabetes. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/diabetes
International Diabetes Federation Africa Region. (2023). Diabetes in Africa. https://idf.org/our-network/regions-members/africa.html
#PublicAwareness
#DiabetesPrevention
#EndTheSilentEpidemic
#IDHC
IDHC
Dado Njie
4th-Year Medical Student
