Episode 3 - Understanding Diabetes

Diabetes is a disease that affects more and more people in Cambodia, mainly due to the aging population. In this article, we will explain in simple terms what diabetes is, the different types, the causes, the risks, and most importantly, how to prevent and manage it.

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic disease caused by an imbalance in blood sugar (glucose) levels. The body needs sugar to function, but this level must remain within a normal range. Sugar is carried by the blood to provide energy to the organs, but too much or too little can have serious consequences.

The pancreas regulates this level thanks to a hormone called insulin. If the pancreas does not function properly, regulation fails, and this is when diabetes sets in.

The Two Types of Diabetes

• Type 1 Diabetes: An autoimmune disease often diagnosed in children or young adults. The pancreas stops producing insulin entirely. This type of diabetes is usually genetic.
• Type 2 Diabetes: Usually develops after age 40 due to aging or poor lifestyle habits (diet, sedentary lifestyle, smoking). The pancreas still produces insulin, but the cells no longer use it properly.

Why is Diabetes Dangerous?

Excess sugar in the blood (hyperglycemia) can lead, in the long term, to:

• Vision problems leading to blindness
• Slow wound healing
• Kidney failure
• Cardiovascular diseases
• Nerve and muscle disorders
• Sexual health issues

Diabetes cannot be cured, but it can be controlled. That’s why it is essential to act at the first signs.

How to Know if You Have Diabetes?

Here are some warning signs:

• Excessive thirst
• Frequent urination with a strong odor
• Unusual fatigue
• Feeling dehydrated

If in doubt, consult a doctor who will do a blood test to measure your sugar level. A normal fasting blood sugar level is between 0.7 and 1.1 g/L (or 0.8 to 1.2 depending on sources).

Prevention and Healthy Lifestyle

To prevent type 2 diabetes, it is crucial to adopt a healthy lifestyle:

• Maintain a balanced diet (avoid fatty, sugary foods, and glutamate)
• Exercise regularly
• Avoid smoking

Daily Blood Sugar Monitoring

For people with diabetes, it is essential to monitor blood sugar levels daily using a glucometer, a simple device to use at home.

Steps to Follow:

1. Wash your hands with soap and water (do not use hand sanitizer).
2. Use a test strip and a lancet device to obtain a drop of blood.
3. Insert the strip into the device and apply the drop of blood.
4. Read the result.
5. Record the results daily in a notebook.

Tip: Avoid always using the same fingers, especially the thumb and index finger, to prevent loss of sensitivity.

The Cost of Equipment

A glucometer costs about $30 to $40. This may seem costly, but it is a crucial investment compared to the high medical expenses caused by diabetes complications.

Conclusion

Diabetes is a serious but manageable disease. By regularly monitoring your blood sugar, adopting good eating habits, and staying active, you can live a healthy life with diabetes. Don’t hesitate to seek advice from a healthcare professional.

See you next week for a new episode of Infosanté at Maria.