05/13/2022
Of the estimated 425 million people living with diabetes, around 10% have Type 1 diabetes. This type of diabetes has to be treated with insulin. At present, there is no way
to prevent Type 1 diabetes. If untreated, the diagnosis of Type 1 diabetes is a death sentence. This leaves around 90% with Type 2 diabetes. In many cases, up to
80% according to some figures, Type 2 diabetes can be prevented through regular physical activity and healthy eating habits.
Unfortunately, Type 2 diabetes often flies under the radar. Onset can be slow and the warning signs and symptoms not obvious. In fact, one-in-two of all people currently living with diabetes remain undiagnosed. Governments can help stop the rise in Type 2 diabetes
by focussing on education initiatives and establishing policies that support an improved lifestyle and dietary choices. They need to help identify people who are not yet diagnosed and those at high risk, so the medical community can intervene early before people are left
needing treatment for diabetes complications. Diabetes is a leading global cause of blindness, lower limb loss, heart attack and kidney failure.
More than two thirds (70%) of premature deaths amongst adults are often the result of behaviour that starts during adolescence. It is critical then that we get into the learning environment to educate children and young adults about the behaviours that can lead to
Type 2 diabetes. It is critical we influence the adoption of habits that will facilitate prevention and create environments that encourage health. It is critical we work with parents to help them provide their children with a blueprint for a healthy future.