KATHMANDU, Nov 14: World Diabetes Day is being observed today across the globe with various awareness-raising programmes.
The day is observed every year on November 14 to raise awareness about diabetes, reduce its risks, and improve access to its prevention, diagnosis and treatment.
The prevalence of diabetes has increased rapidly in low- and middle-income countries compared to high-income countries over the past decade. The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified overweight and obesity as major risk factors for diabetes.
Keeping diabetes at bay
Diabetes is a leading cause of blindness, kidney failure, heart attacks, strokes and limb amputations.
A healthy diet, regular physical activity and avoiding tobacco can help prevent type 2 diabetes or reduce the risk of developing it. According to doctors, early detection, regular health check-ups, medication and proper management of complications can prevent or reduce the serious effects of diabetes. They also stress the importance of regular treatment and lifestyle changes in managing the disease.
Diabetes specialist Dr Binaya Bhattarai told RSS that adopting a healthy lifestyle is essential for preventing diabetes.
While type 1 diabetes can develop rapidly, type 2 diabetes develops gradually and may not show obvious symptoms in its early stages. Therefore, regular health check-ups are important, he said.
"People who are overweight, have a family history of diabetes or have high cholesterol should get tested regularly. Everyone should undergo regular diabetes screening after the age of 35," he advised.
