What You Need to Know about Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes. Almost four million Filipino adults have type 2 diabetes.

There are two interrelated problems involved in type 2 diabetes. First, the pancreas does not produce enough insulin, a hormone that enables glucose (sugar) to enter cells where it is used for energy. Second, the cells respond poorly to insulin, a condition known as insulin resistance.

This results in high levels of glucose circulating in the bloodstream. Prolonged high blood sugar levels damage blood vessels and vital organs such as the kidneys, heart and eyes, and cause life-threatening complications.

Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of type 2 diabetes often develop slowly. These include:

  • Increased thirst
  • Frequent urination
  • Increased hunger
  • Unintended weight loss
  • Fatigue
  • Blurred vision
  • Slow-healing sores
  • Frequent infections
  • Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet
  • Areas of darkened skin, usually in the armpits and neck

Risk factors

Factors that may increase your risk of type 2 diabetes include:

  • Overweight or obesity
  • Excessive abdominal fat (“belly fat”)
  • Sedentary/inactive lifestyle
  • Family history of type 2 diabetes
  • Low levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL or “good cholesterol”)
  • High levels of triglycerides
  • Advancing age (especially after age 45)
  • Prediabetes – a condition in which blood sugar level is higher than normal, but not high enough to be classified as diabetes. Prediabetes often progresses to type 2 diabetes if left untreated.
  • Pregnancy-related risks – a woman’s risk for type diabetes increases if she develops gestational diabetes during pregnancy, or gives birth to a baby weighing more than 9 pounds (4 kilograms).
  • Polycystic ovary syndrome – PCOS is a common condition characterized by irregular menstrual periods, excess hair growth and obesity.
  • Areas of darkened skin, usually in the armpits and neck – this condition often indicates insulin resistance.

Prevention

Adopting a healthy lifestyle can help you prevent type 2 diabetes:

  • Eat a low-fat, low-calorie, fiber-rich diet focused on fruits, vegetables, and whole grain.
  • Aim to get at least 150 minutes per week of moderate to vigorous aerobic activity, such as brisk walk, bicycling, running or swimming.
  • Maintain a healthy weight. If you are overweight, lose the excess pounds and keep them off.

Consult your doctor for more information on type 2 diabetes prevention and management.

Shop at Watsons for prescription medications and other essential healthcare needs.

 

References:

https://www.diabetes.org/diabetes/type-2. Accessed 30 July 2021
https://idf.org/our-network/regions-members/western-pacific/members/116-the-philippines.html. Accessed 30 July 2021
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/type-2-diabetes/symptoms-causes/syc-20351193. Accessed 30 July 2021

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