Mediclinic Limpopo promotes diabetes awareness

In celebration of World Diabetes Day that was observed yesterday (Wednesday), staff members of Mediclinic Limpopo hosted a blood glucose testing campaign at Body Life Gymnasium in the city on Monday and Tuesday afternoon, reaching 260 gym-goers on the first day.
Mediclinic in a media release stated the truth is that while people check their social media constantly throughout the day, they often neglect to check their health. “Mediclinic is asking the public to make this a priority this World Diabetes Day, as 30% of people with Type 2 diabetes have already developed complications by the time they present to a healthcare provider to be checked for the disease,” the statement read.
Diabetes is a condition that inhibits the body’s ability to properly regulate its blood glucose levels. In South Africa, it is estimated that 3,85 million South Africans suffer from diabetes, with many remaining undiagnosed. There are two different types of diabetes, Type 1 and Type 2 and it is important to see a health care provider so that the right type of treatment plan can be started if necessary.
According to the statement, the symptoms of diabetes are often mistaken for other ailments and many people fail to seek suitable medical advice. The symptoms can affect anyone, regardless of age or gender and common symptoms include being very thirsty, frequent urination, rapid weight loss or gain, extreme unexplained fatigue, blurry vision, irritability, increased hunger and a tingling or numbness in hands or feet.
“We encourage anyone with these symptoms to consult with their doctors to accurately diagnose the cause. Remember the earlier your diabetes is diagnosed and treated, the better. Diabetes complications are serious and include heart disease, stroke, blindness, amputations and kidney failure. In most cases, these complications could have been avoided entirely by early diagnosis and proper treatment,” the statement concludes.

Story and photos: BARRY VILJOEN
>>barryv.observer@gmail.com