All over the world, it is estimated that about three-quarters of a billion people are suffering from diabetes. There is a good number of people in the Gambia also who are suffering from the disease.
Diabetes describes a group of metabolic diseases in which the person has high blood glucose [blood sugar], either because insulin production is inadequate, or because the body’s cells do not respond properly to insulin, or both. The commonest symptoms of diabetes include frequent urination, and frequently becoming increasingly thirsty and hungry.
Diabetes is a long-term condition that causes high blood sugar levels. We often hear about Diabetes Type One which the body does not produce insulin. It is said that about ten percent of diabetics are suffering from Type One.
The other one is Type 2 Diabetes; in this case the body does not produce enough insulin for proper function. An approximated ninth percent of all cases of diabetes worldwide are of this type.
In celebrating the day set aside for diabetes and people battling the disease, focus should be centred on its prevention and management. It is true that not many people know the causes and effects of diabetes. What is it that diabetics should avoid and how can they avoid exacerbating it?
By the use of the print and electronic media, the sensitization efforts should be stepped up so that its spread can be brought under control.
