Diabetes: Causes, Types, Symptoms and Prevention Tips

Sheela Sehrawat

As per global estimates, around 415 million people worldwide are living with diabetes, meaning 1 in 11 adults is affected. Shockingly, more than 46% remain undiagnosed, and the number is expected to rise to 642 million by 2040.

In India alone, over 30 million people are diagnosed with diabetes, with a crude prevalence rate of around 9% in urban areas and 3% in rural regions.

According to dietician Sheela Seharawat, understanding diabetes is essential in today’s high-risk lifestyle environment.

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic lifestyle disease where blood sugar levels become abnormally high. This happens when:

• The pancreas produces insufficient insulin, or
• The body’s cells fail to respond properly to insulin

Insulin is a hormone responsible for converting glucose into energy. When this process fails, glucose accumulates in the blood, leading to serious health complications.

Common Symptoms of Diabetes

• Frequent urination
• Excessive thirst
• Increased hunger
• Fatigue and weakness
• Blurred vision
• Slow healing of wounds
• Sudden weight loss or gain
• Tingling or numbness in hands and feet

Types of Diabetes

1. Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes occurs when the immune system destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.

• Also known as juvenile or insulin-dependent diabetes
• Common in children and young adults
• Requires lifelong insulin therapy
• Managed through strict diet and regular monitoring

2. Type 2 Diabetes

This is the most common form of diabetes, where the body either does not produce enough insulin or becomes resistant to it.

• Strongly linked to obesity and unhealthy lifestyle
• Can be managed with diet, exercise, and weight control
• May also have a genetic component
• Increasing rapidly due to sedentary habits and junk food consumption

3. Gestational Diabetes

This type occurs during pregnancy when hormonal changes affect insulin production.

• Affects pregnant women
• Usually controlled through diet and exercise
• In some cases, medication is required
• Can increase risk of complications during childbirth

Causes and Risk Factors

Modern lifestyle plays a major role in increasing diabetes cases. Key risk factors include:

• Unhealthy diet rich in sugar and processed foods
• Lack of physical activity
• Obesity and excess body fat
• Alcohol consumption and smoking
• Family history of diabetes
• Stress and irregular lifestyle

Health Risks of Untreated Diabetes

If not managed properly, diabetes can lead to:

• Heart disease and stroke
• Kidney damage
• Eye complications
• Nerve damage
• Dental problems
• Foot infections and complications

Diagnostic Tests for Diabetes

1. A1C Test

• 6.5% or higher → Diabetes
• 5.7% to 5.9% → Prediabetes

2. Fasting Plasma Glucose (FPG) Test

• 126 mg/dL or higher → Diabetes
• 100–125 mg/dL → Prediabetes

3. Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT)

• 200 mg/dL or higher → Diabetes
• 140–199 mg/dL → Prediabetes

Prevention and Management of Diabetes

Diabetes can be controlled and even prevented through lifestyle changes:

• Follow a balanced and nutritious diet
• Avoid junk food and sugary items
• Exercise regularly (at least 30 minutes daily)
• Maintain healthy body weight
• Quit smoking and limit alcohol
• Go for regular health check-ups

Diabetes is a serious but manageable lifestyle disease. Early detection, healthy eating habits, regular exercise, and proper medical care can significantly reduce risks and improve quality of life. Making conscious lifestyle choices is the key to preventing diabetes and staying healthy in the long run.

Sheela Sehrawat is a Dietician