Feeling well does not always mean your blood sugar is healthy. Type 2 diabetes can develop quietly, sometimes only being discovered after damage has occurred.

This year’s theme for World Diabetes Day on November 14 – early action on diabetes – carries a timely message. The International Diabetes Federation estimates that 589 million adults aged 20 to 79 were living with diabetes worldwide in 2024. About 43% had not been diagnosed.

Diabetes occurs when the body makes too little insulin or cannot use it effectively, allowing blood sugar to rise. Type 2 diabetes is the most common form. Type 1 diabetes usually results from the immune system attacking insulin-producing cells, and can develop at any age and requires insulin for survival.

Know the signs and your risk

Watch for unusual thirst, frequent urination, persistent tiredness, blurred vision or unexplained weight loss. Seek medical advice promptly. If these symptoms occur with vomiting, stomach pain, deep or rapid breathing, or marked drowsiness, seek emergency care.

Type 2 diabetes may cause no obvious symptoms. Ask about testing if you have a parent or sibling with diabetes, carry excess weight, have high blood pressure or previously had diabetes during pregnancy. Risk also increases with age, although younger people can develop the condition.

Also read: Eat good, simple and healthy

A finger-prick test can flag a problem, but diagnosis usually needs laboratory testing. Your healthcare professional may request a fasting blood glucose test or HbA1c, which reflects average blood sugar over the past two to three months. An abnormal result may need confirmation.

Protect your health every day

Healthy habits can help prevent or delay type 2 diabetes and support treatment after diagnosis. Choose water instead of sugary drinks. Build meals around vegetables, beans or lentils, with sensible portions of wholegrain starches and protein. Affordable, familiar foods can form part of a healthy eating plan.

Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity each week, such as brisk walking, adapted to your health and ability. Start with manageable amounts and build up. Walking with family or friends can make activity easier to maintain. Avoid tobacco and seek support with weight management when needed.

For people already living with diabetes, ongoing care protects far more than the blood sugar reading. Take prescribed treatment and attend follow-up appointments. Ask about blood pressure and cholesterol control, kidney tests, eye screening and foot checks. Check your feet daily and report wounds promptly. These steps help reduce the risk of heart disease, kidney failure, sight loss and amputations.

Diabetes can also affect emotional well-being. Families can help by sharing healthier meals, joining walks and offering encouragement. If treatment costs, side effects or fear make care difficult, discuss this with your healthcare team.

Information provided by Seadoone Medical Centre.

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