In commemoration of International Diabetes Awareness Month, Melomed Richards Bay is hosting a Diabetics Awareness seminar on Saturday 14 November.

The seminar will take place at the hospital’s boardroom from 9am to noon.

Owing to Covid-19 regulations, space is limited and booking is essential. Please RSVP with Ms Nzuza at mrbcso@melomed.co.za or 035 791 5300.

Don’t leave diabetes untreated

Diabetes is one of the most common chronic diseases in the world. Since it is so widespread, there is a misconception that the disease is not serious. However, if left untreated, diabetes can lead to a myriad of complications, including vision loss, heart disease and even limb amputation.

November is International Diabetes Awareness Month, which aims to bring attention to the diabetes epidemic and educate those who may have it, as well as those who are at risk of getting diabetes.

Dr Ashley Murugan, resident physician at Melomed Richards Bay, shares some insight about the disease.

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes mellitus, commonly known as diabetes, is a chronic condition in which the body is unable to control its blood glucose (‘sugar’) levels as a result of a deficit of insulin or insulin resistance. This results in elevated blood glucose levels. Type 2 diabetes is the most common type of diabetes, affecting about 90% of patients.

Diagnosis of diabetes

This is done by blood tests. Either fasting blood glucose level of 7.0mmol/l or higher, random blood glucose level of 11.1mmol/l or higher with typical symptoms of diabetes. HBA1c of 6.5 % or higher or 75g glucose tolerance test with a 2-hour blood glucose level of 11.1mmol/l or higher.

Who should be tested for diabetes?

Everyone over the age of 45 should be tested for diabetes. Particularly those with a strong family history of diabetes. If the results are normal, the test should be repeated every three years. Risk factors for developing diabetes include the following:

• Obesity/overweight (most common cause of type 2)
• Family history of diabetes
• Hypertension
• High cholesterol
• History of polycystic ovary syndrome
• History of gestational diabetes (Diabetes that occurs during pregnancy for the first time)

Patients who have the following symptoms/signs should be tested for possible underlining diabetes:

• Frequent urination
• Excessive thirst
• Numbness or burning sensations in hands or feet
• Blurred vision
• Dark velvety skin at the back of the neck
• Recurring urinary tract infections

Importance of early diagnosis and control of diabetes

• If diabetes is diagnosed early, type 2 diabetes can potentially be ‘reversed’.
• By controlling blood sugar levels early, you can prevent the many complications of diabetes, such as stroke, heart attack, visual impairment, kidney failure and diabetic foot, leading to amputation of limb.

How to prevent diabetes

• Regular exercise for about 30 mins, three to five times a week.
• Weight loss
• Healthy diet, free of processed sugars

Dr Murugan’s practice is situated in Suite 108, Melomed Private Hospital, Richards Bay Tel: 0357915420