“Over 6.7 million people are estimated to die from diabetes each year and it is one of the top 10 causes of death globally,” states World Economic Forum.

Locally, diabetes is the second leading cause of death in South Africa, after tuberculosis, according to a Wits University report.

The university also states that one in nine adults in South Africa has diabetes, totaling approximately 4.2 million people.

Since 1990, the number of people affected by diabetes has increased.

The number has grown from 200 million in 1990 to 830 million in 2022, it says World Health Organization.

READING: 50% of people with diabetes are currently undiagnosed

World Diabetes Day

November 11 marks World Diabetes Day. The day aims to raise awareness about the chronic disease that continues to affect millions of people around the world.

People with diabetes may have the following symptom:

• Increased hunger
• Increased thirst
• Weight loss
• Frequent urination
• Blurred vision
• Extreme fatigue
• Wounds that won’t heal
• A decrease in sexual appetite
• Erectile dysfunction
• Weak muscle strength
• Vaginal dryness
• Urinary tract infections
• Yeast infections
• Dry, itchy skin

READING: 50% of people with diabetes are currently undiagnosed

Diabetes is caused by several factors, depending on the type of diabetes you have. However, there are several things you can do that can reduce your chances of suffering from it. Below are some of the WHO recommendations.

Lifestyle changes are the best way to prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes.

• achieve and maintain a healthy body weight
• stay physically active with at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week
• eat a healthy diet and avoid sugar and saturated fat
• you don’t smoke tobacco

READING: Diabetes continues to top the list of silent killers in SA

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Disclaimer: The health information provided in this article is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems. It is always advisable to consult your doctor regarding any health concerns.