At least 171 million people worldwide have diabetes; this figure is likely to be more than double by 2030. Unfortunately, India has the largest number of diabetic patients in the world. The disease is such that it cannot be cured, only managed. Diabetes, which was once prevalent only among adults, is now found commonly in children due to change in lifestyle and imbalanced eating habits.
For the purpose of classification, the disease can be classified in the following three groups:-
Type 1 Diabetes
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Type 2 Diabetes
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Gestational Diabetes
The alarming figure of diabetes prevalence in India made the government start a National Diabetes Control Programme in 1987. The programme was started on a pilot basis in some districts of Tamil Nadu, Jammu and Kashmir and Karnataka. The Government is serious about controlling the disease and for this purpose various educational, training and support programmes are being run.
Prevention of diabetes: Diabetes cannot be cured; it can only be prevented and managed. Following steps could be followed to avoid falling prey to the disease and to keep it under control:
- Exercise daily: Morning walk, yoga, running, aerobics can all help in preventing diabetes.
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Make healthy food choices: Choose foods with lower fat, saturated fat, calories, and salt. Try fresh vegetables and fresh fruits. Replace soft drinks with fresh juices and water.
- Try to eat sensible meals and snacks at regular times throughout the day.
- Take the stairs to office.
- Eat slowly. It takes 20 minutes for your stomach to send a signal to your brain that you're full.
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