Three major types of diabetes

MANILA, Philippines - In the Philippines, the incidence of diabetes has posted an alarming increase, with health experts predicting that by 2030, there will be 6.16 million Filipinos suffering from the disease.

“Addressing the problem begins with extensive efforts to educate the public about diabetes — its signs and symptoms, types, causes, prevention, and management,” explains Dr. Nicky Montoya, president of MediCard, a leading Philippine HMO.

He adds, “A lot of people, for example, understand diabetes simply as sugar intolerance and that if it doesn’t run in your family, you’re safe. But in fact, it comes in different types, some of which you can develop late in life.” Below are three major types of diabetes and their characteristics.

• Type 1 diabetes. Previously called insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) and juvenile diabetes, Type 1 diabetes is known to develop most often among the young. It is an autoimmune disease that attacks the cells of the pancreas, which then produce very little insulin, or none at all. People with this condition need to use insulin injection or pump to control their sugar levels. Its symptoms include increased urination, excessive thirst, fatigue, weight fluctuations, blurred vision, and slow-healing wounds.

• Type 2 diabetes. In Type 2 diabetes, the cells resist the effects of insulin. As the disease progresses, the body may eventually fail to produce enough insulin to regulate the blood sugar level. Type 2 diabetes exhibits the same symptoms as Type 1, but these typically appear during adulthood, especially as a result of obesity and physical inactivity. Because of this, prevention and treatment focus on promoting a healthy lifestyle.

• Gestational diabetes. This type of diabetes occurs if the body is unable to produce extra insulin to counter the resistance from hormones released by the placenta during pregnancy. Occurring in about two to 10% of pregnancies, it poses health risks to both the mother and the fetus. Thankfully, it can be managed through diet change or close monitoring of blood sugar.

In addition to these three types, some people may manifest some symptoms of prediabetes. Among the prediabetic, blood sugar level is higher than the normal range, but still not high enough to qualify as diabetes. But if the person does not lead a healthy life, prediabetes might develop into Type 2 diabetes.

In addition to family history, risk factors for diabetes include high blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol and triglyceride levels, being overweight, inactivity, and for women, a history of polycystic ovary disease (PCOS)

If you want to learn more about diabetes mellitus, talk to your doctor today, or visit www.medicardphils.com.