Driving Naari Programme launched in Chandigarh
India, often referred to as the ‘diabetes capital of the world’, is currently grappling with more than 77 million diabetic patients.
The societal and individual understanding of diabetes is shrouded in many myths, which often serve as barriers to effective prevention and timely treatment.
This article aims to dispel these misconceptions by highlighting the actual facts about diabetes.
Myth 1: Only overweight individuals get diabetes
One of the most prevalent misconceptions about diabetes is that only overweight or obese individuals are at risk. However, this is far from the truth. While obesity does increase the risk of Type 2 diabetes, people of any body type can develop this disease.
Diabetes is a metabolic disease caused by the body’s inability to produce enough insulin or effectively utilise the produced insulin, and it is influenced by a multitude of factors including genetics, sedentary lifestyle, unhealthy diet, and age.
Myth 2: Diabetes is not a serious disease
Another damaging myth is the perception of diabetes as a ‘small’ disease. What many people fail to understand is that chronic high blood sugar levels can lead to heart disease, kidney failure, blindness, and even limb amputation in severe cases. Therefore, diabetes can indeed pose serious threats to a person’s overall health, longevity, and quality of life.
Myth 3: A diabetic patient should avoid sugar altogether
The belief that people with diabetes must completely avoid sugar is widespread yet inaccurate. It is advisable to minimise the intake of refined sugars and opt for a balanced diet with a proper mix of proteins, fibres and good fats. A total embargo on sugar can be detrimental as our bodies need some sugar for energy. Therefore, diabetes management is more about eating a balanced diet and less about completely banning sugar.
Reality: Early detection and lifestyle modification can manage diabetes
The reality is, that diabetes is manageable. Early detection through regular screening and structured lifestyle modifications can significantly delay the progression of the disease and prevent complications.
A balanced diet, regular exercise, timely medication, and regular blood sugar monitoring are crucial elements of diabetes management.
Conclusion
It’s high time we debunk the myths surrounding diabetes and disseminate the truth to motivate individuals to take the necessary steps towards prevention, early detection, and management.
Educating society about the realities of diabetes is the need of the hour to change the title ‘Diabetes Capital of the World’ that India currently holds. Let’s work together to create a healthier, more informed society and change the trajectory of diabetes in India.
