Global focus on diabetes
Awareness and early detection is key to managing this common chronic condition.
A global campaign calling for earlier diagnosis and better awareness of diabetes is set to shine a spotlight on a condition affecting more than 1.3 million Australians.
World Diabetes Day, on 14 November, is an awareness campaign that reaches people in more than 160 countries.
Organised by the International Diabetes Federation, the event aims to improve understanding of diabetes, promote prevention where possible, and encourage people to recognise their risk before serious health complications develop.
Diabetes is one of Australia's most significant chronic health conditions.
Health experts warn that many people with type 2 diabetes may be living with the condition for years before receiving a diagnosis, increasing the risk of heart disease, kidney disease, vision problems, and other complications.
For older Australians, the message is particularly relevant. The risk of developing type 2 diabetes increases with age, making awareness and regular health checks more important than ever.
According to Healthdirect, diabetes is a condition in which there is too much glucose (sugar) in the blood because the body cannot make enough insulin or does not use it effectively.
Symptoms of type 2 diabetes can include excessive thirst, frequent urination, tiredness, blurred vision, slow-healing wounds, and recurring infections. However, many people with type 2 diabetes experience few obvious symptoms, meaning the condition can remain undetected for years.
That is why World Diabetes Day places such a strong emphasis on early detection and action. Globally, health organisations estimate that millions of people are living with undiagnosed diabetes. Without diagnosis and treatment, high blood glucose levels can damage blood vessels and nerves over time, increasing the likelihood of serious complications.
In Australia, diabetes continues to place a substantial burden on individuals, families, and the healthcare system.
While type 2 diabetes is more common among older people, it is not an inevitable part of ageing. The good news is that many of the risk factors can be modified.
Healthdirect identifies physical inactivity, overweight and obesity, unhealthy eating habits, and a family history of diabetes among factors that can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Smoking, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol can also contribute to the risk.
For those already living with diabetes, good management can make a significant difference. Diabetes can be managed through a combination of healthy lifestyle choices and, where necessary, medication to help control blood glucose levels.
Measures such as eating a balanced diet, staying physically active, maintaining a healthy weight, and attending regular medical check-ups can help reduce the risk of complications. Regular monitoring of blood glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels is also important.
World Diabetes Day is an opportunity to encourage conversations with family and friends about health. If you have concerns about your risk of diabetes, speak with your GP. A simple health assessment or blood test may help identify problems before they become more serious.
Related reading: World Diabetes Day, Health Direct, Diabetes Australia
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