Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disease that affects how the body uses sugar (glucose) in the blood. It is a global health challenge, with millions of people living with the disease—often without even knowing it. According to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), about 1 in 2 adults with diabetes are unaware of their condition, meaning that 50% of people with diabetes remain undiagnosed.
What Causes Diabetes
Glucose is the primary “fuel” for our cells. However, for it to enter the cells, it needs the help of insulin—a hormone produced by the pancreas. In diabetes, the body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or doesn’t use it properly, causing glucose to build up in the bloodstream instead of being used by the cells.
Types of Diabetes
- Type 1 (insulin-dependent):
- Usually develops in children and young adults
- The immune system attacks and destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas
- Requires daily insulin administration
- Type 2 (the most common type):
- Associated with obesity, sedentary lifestyle, age, and heredity
- The body does not use insulin effectively
- Can be prevented and managed with diet, exercise, and medication
- Gestational/Genetic Diabetes:
- Occurs during pregnancy and usually resolves after childbirth
- Requires close monitoring for the health of both mother and baby
Symptoms Not to Ignore
- Frequent urination
- Excessive thirst
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue and drowsiness
- Blurred vision
- Frequent infections or slow-healing wounds
Many people with type 2 diabetes show no symptoms for years.
Consequences of Untreated Diabetes
Diabetes can affect almost every system in the body. If left unmanaged, it may lead to:
- Cardiovascular diseases (heart attack, stroke)
- Kidney failure
- Eye damage (diabetic retinopathy – risk of blindness)
- Neuropathies (numbness, pain, loss of sensation)
- Diabetic foot (in advanced cases, may lead to amputation)
- Erectile dysfunction (in men)
Proper management and early intervention can significantly delay or prevent these complications.
Diagnosis and Monitoring
Diagnosis is done through blood tests such as:
- Fasting blood glucose
- Oral glucose tolerance test
- Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) – indicates average blood sugar over the past 3 months
All adults over 45 or those with risk factors (obesity, sedentary lifestyle, family history) should be tested every 1–2 years. All Euromedica diagnostic centers perform these tests daily, with consistency and responsibility.
Prevention & Management Strategies
Type 2 diabetes can often be prevented through healthy lifestyle choices:
- Balanced diet (rich in vegetables, legumes, whole grains, low in saturated fats)
- Regular physical activity (at least 30 minutes a day)
- Weight management and obesity prevention
- Regular medical check-ups
- Avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol
Diabetes is not invincible. It’s a challenge we can manage with awareness, prevention, and responsibility. By adopting healthy habits and undergoing regular preventive screenings, we can significantly reduce the risk of developing the disease or its complications. Awareness, prevention, and care are our strongest “weapons” against diabetes.
The advancement of diagnostic tools has greatly contributed to the detection and management of diabetes mellitus. Euromedica’ s diagnostic centers utilize the most advanced diagnostic methods, boast state-of-the-art technological infrastructure, and rely on experienced, specialized staff—a combination that ensures accurate and reliable results for patients.
For more information on preventive diabetes screening, you can contact your nearest diagnostic center either by phone or online via the “Book Appointment” form.