November is Diabetes Awareness Month, and it's a time to raise awareness about this growing global health issue. Diabetes affects millions of people worldwide, and its impact is felt not only by those living with the condition but also by their families and communities. This month, it's important for all of us to take a step back and reflect on the significance of diabetes—how we can prevent it, manage it, and support those who are living with it.
Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how the body regulates blood sugar (glucose). Normally, insulin helps move glucose from the bloodstream into cells for energy. But for people with diabetes, either the body doesn’t produce enough insulin or cannot use it effectively, leading to high blood sugar levels that can cause serious health problems.
There are three main types of diabetes. Type 1 diabetes occurs when the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. It’s typically diagnosed in children, teens, or young adults, and those with Type 1 need to take insulin for life. Type 2 diabetes is the most common form and happens when the body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or becomes resistant to it. Type 2 is often linked to lifestyle factors like poor diet, lack of exercise, and obesity. But the good news is, it can be managed through medication, lifestyle changes, and in some cases, insulin if needed. Gestational diabetes develops during pregnancy and affects how the body processes glucose. While it usually goes away after childbirth, it increases the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life for both the mother and child.
The numbers are staggering—according to the World Health Organization (WHO), diabetes is a leading cause of blindness, kidney failure, heart disease, and other serious health issues. And here in the United States, over 38 million people are living with diabetes, yet 1 in 5 people don’t even know they have it. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that by 2060, 1 in 3 adults could have diabetes. This makes it even more crucial to raise awareness, educate people about the risks, and encourage early detection and intervention.
Although anyone can develop diabetes, certain factors increase the likelihood. These include family history, being over the age of 45, obesity, physical inactivity, and an unhealthy diet. If someone in your family has diabetes, you may be at a higher risk. People over 45 are more likely to develop Type 2 diabetes, although younger people are being diagnosed more frequently these days. Carrying excess weight, especially around the belly, is strongly linked to insulin resistance. A lack of exercise can contribute to weight gain and insulin resistance, and a diet high in processed foods, sugary drinks, and unhealthy fats can increase the risk of Type 2 diabetes.
The good news is that Type 2 diabetes—and in some cases, gestational diabetes—can often be prevented or delayed through lifestyle changes. Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the risk of Type 2 diabetes, and even losing a small amount of weight—about 5-10% of your body weight—can help. Combining a balanced diet with regular physical activity can help people achieve and maintain a healthy weight. A healthy diet focused on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats is key. Limiting intake of sugary drinks, processed snacks, and foods high in refined carbohydrates can help keep blood sugar levels steady. Exercise plays a huge role in diabetes prevention. Aiming for at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity most days of the week can help regulate blood sugar and improve insulin sensitivity. Whether it’s walking, swimming, or strength training, staying active is crucial.
If you’re at risk for diabetes, it’s important to get regular blood sugar checks. If you’re diagnosed with prediabetes, making changes to your lifestyle—like eating healthier, losing weight, and exercising—can help prevent Type 2 diabetes from developing. Quitting smoking is also a key step. Smoking increases the risk of Type 2 diabetes and can make it harder for people who already have the disease to manage. Managing stress is another important part of staying healthy. Chronic stress can affect your blood sugar levels and insulin resistance, so practicing stress-reducing techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can help.
Early detection of diabetes is so important. Many people with Type 2 diabetes don’t experience symptoms until the disease is quite advanced, which is why regular checkups and blood tests are so important—especially if you have any of the risk factors I mentioned earlier. If you notice symptoms like increased thirst, frequent urination, blurred vision, or fatigue, it’s time to see a doctor.
If you’re already living with diabetes, managing the condition requires ongoing effort. It’s about balancing medication or insulin therapy, eating a healthy diet, staying active, and regularly monitoring blood sugar levels. You’ll need to stay in close contact with your healthcare provider and, most importantly, get support from loved ones.
This month, I think it’s important to spread the word. Whether you have diabetes or you know someone who does, sharing information and personal stories can make a big difference. Supporting diabetes research and participating in local events can also help raise awareness and show support for those affected by the disease. Many communities host walks, fundraisers, and other events to raise awareness, and getting involved is a great way to make a positive impact.
Diabetes may seem overwhelming, but with knowledge, early detection, and a few lifestyle changes, it’s possible to prevent, manage, and even reverse Type 2 diabetes. This Diabetes Awareness Month, let’s work together to educate ourselves, reduce our risks, and support those who are living with this condition. We all have a role to play in creating a healthier future for ourselves and our communities.
If you or someone you know is at risk, take this month as an opportunity to learn more, get checked, and make changes that can improve health for the long term. Let’s raise awareness and make a positive difference in the fight against diabetes.