By Health Corner, IndoUs Tribune

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide, including a significant portion of the Indo-US population. Characterized by high blood sugar levels, this form of diabetes is primarily influenced by lifestyle factors and genetic predispositions. Understanding the causes, symptoms, management, and prevention of type 2 diabetes is crucial for maintaining a healthy life.

What is type 2 diabetes?
Approximately 90-95% of people with diabetes have type 2, in which the body doesn’t use insulin properly. This leads to high blood sugar levels as insulin, the hormone that regulates blood sugar, becomes less effective. Over time, this condition can cause serious health complications.

Causes and risk factors
Several factors increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes:

Genetics: Family history plays a significant role.

Obesity: Excess fat, particularly around the abdomen, can increase insulin resistance.

Physical inactivity: A sedentary lifestyle contributes to weight gain and insulin resistance.

Age: Risk increases with age, particularly after 45.

Ethnicity: People of South Asian, African American, Hispanic, and Native American descent have a higher risk.

Diet: Poor dietary habits, especially high intake of processed foods and sugary beverages, are major contributors.

Symptoms to watch for
Type 2 diabetes can sneak up on you. There are often no obvious symptoms that you are prediabetic, or on the verge of becoming diabetic, besides a higher-than-normal blood glucose level. In fact, some people who have type 2 diabetes have symptoms that develop so slowly they don’t notice them. Sometimes, people who are prediabetic experience symptoms of type 2 diabetes, such as:

Frequent urination
4Increased thirst and hunger
4Fatigue
4Blurred vision
4Cuts or bruises that heal slowly
4More frequent infections
4Losing weight without trying
4Tingling, pain, or numbness in the hands or feet

Even if you don’t have symptoms, it’s important to monitor your health, as type 2 diabetes can be a life-changing disease.

Complications
Type 2 diabetes can make people more susceptible to skin infections, such as sties, boils, and infections around the nails and hair follicles. It can make people vulnerable to yeast-like skin infections and itching. The disease can cause nerve damage and foot problems, as diabetes makes the blood vessels in your feet and legs narrow and hard, which makes it hard for blood to circulate.

People who have diabetes are more likely to also have high blood pressure, which can lead to heart problems or stroke. Type 2 diabetes can damage your kidneys to the point where they shut down.

Managing type 2 diabetes
Management of type 2 diabetes involves lifestyle changes, medication, and monitoring blood sugar levels:

Healthy eating: A balanced diet rich in vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats is crucial. Reducing sugar and refined carbs helps manage blood sugar levels.

Regular exercise: Physical activity helps the body use insulin more efficiently. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week.

Weight management: Losing weight, if needed, can significantly improve insulin sensitivity.

Medications: Oral medications and sometimes insulin injections are prescribed to help manage blood sugar levels.

Regular monitoring: Keeping track of blood sugar levels helps manage the condition more effectively.

Prevention strategies
While genetics cannot be changed, lifestyle modifications can significantly reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes:

Maintain a healthy weight: Aim for a BMI within the normal range.

Stay active: Incorporate physical activities into your daily routine.

Eat healthy: Focus on a diet low in sugar and refined carbs and high in fiber.

Regular check-ups: Early detection through regular screenings can lead to better management.

Staying on top of your health with your primary care physician is a good place to start. Regular physicals, including bloodwork, will bring any symptoms to light early when they’re easiest to treat. Tell your doctor if you experience any concerning symptoms.

The Indo-US perspective
The Indo-US community faces unique challenges with type 2 diabetes. Genetic predispositions combined with lifestyle changes due to migration and urbanization increase the risk. Traditional diets high in carbohydrates, coupled with sedentary lifestyles, contribute to the higher prevalence. Awareness and education within the community are vital to combat this growing health issue.

Conclusion
Type 2 diabetes is a manageable condition with the right approach. Through a combination of healthy lifestyle choices, regular medical check-ups, and proper management strategies, individuals can lead healthy lives and reduce the risk of complications. Stay informed, stay active, and make health a priority to prevent or manage type 2 diabetes effectively.
For more information and tips on managing diabetes, consult your healthcare provider and stay tuned to Health Corner, IndoUs Tribune.