Every year on November 14 the world celebrates World Diabetes Day. This date is the birthday of the Canadian scientist Frederick Bunting, thanks to the study of which the hormone insulin was discovered. For this, the scientist was awarded the Nobel Prize.

This year, on the initiative of the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), November 14 will be held under the motto «Take care of your family».

According to the forecast of the International Diabetes Federation, by 2025 the number of people diagnosed with diabetes mellitus will reach 550 million worldwide, and will exceed 640 million by 2040. According to various experts, from 40% to 80% of people with diabetes mellitus do not know about their diagnosis, do not receive adequate treatment, which significantly increases the risk of serious complications developing. The disease is the leading cause of blindness, amputation of limbs, heart disease, renal failure, and early death.

And what about Belarus?

As noted by Professor of the Department of Endocrinology of the Belarusian State Medical University and Chairman of the BPMA “Endocrinology and Metabolism” Ala Šapiaĺkievič, a tendency towards an increase in the number of patients with diabetes mellitus is also observed in our country. Over the past five years, the number of cases has increased by 5–8% per year.

As of January 1, 2019, 335 898 patients were enrolled in the dispensary with a diagnosis of diabetes mellitus. More than 17 thousands of them with diabetes mellitus of the 1st type, over 314 thousand with diabetes mellitus of the 2nd type. Among all cases of the disease, 93% is type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Type 2 diabetes mellitus is largely due to lifestyle (bad habits, lack of physical activity and unhealthy diet). And not even taking medications, but a change in lifestyle is one of the main factors in the treatment and correction of the disease. So, according to experts of the International Federation of Diabetes, more than 50% of cases of type 2 diabetes mellitus can be prevented.

Do not be alone in the disease

Life with any chronic disease affects a person. It becomes necessary to change the usual way of life and habits. Diabetes mellitus is not an exception: it is necessary to monitor weight, choose healthy foods, exercise oneself, regularly take insulin injections or take pills, visit a doctor.

The importance of the family cannot be overestimated in any situation. It is the relatives of the patient with diabetes mellitus who can provide the help that he needs. To weaken the feeling of fear, suspense and frustration that often accompany the diagnosis, to support and not to leave alone with the disease.

By the way, investigations have shown that people who are not alone and feel the support of loved ones manage diabetes better. After all, help can be different. For example, someone will keep company during physical exercises or will adhere to the same nutrition plan, or maybe just become a companion during a visit to the doctor. It is from these small steps a system for helping people with diabetes mellitus is built, the interlocutor added.

To join forces

Diabetes mellitus is not only about treatment, it is also about life. That is why it is necessary to combine the efforts of all interested (patients, their relatives, medical specialists) to help patients with diabetes mellitus. The action which will be held in Minsk on November 24 is dedicated to this. Everyone can take part: those who themselves have encountered the disease, their nearest and dearest, as well as those who are simply not indifferent or, by virtue of their professional activities, provide assistance to such patients.

The program of the event will include declarations of speakers who will talk about modern approaches in the treatment of diabetes mellitus, as well as how to maintain health, even if the diagnosis has already been made. Particular attention will be paid to problems that may arise in old age. For children and adults a consultation of endocrinologists will be organized. Specialists will also share recommendations on pregnancy planning.

Place and time of the meeting: Minsk, Pieršamajskaja vul., 3a. Cultural and entertainment center «Family Club». Beginning at 10.00. The action is organized by PA «Support for People with Diabetes» and BPMA «Endocrinology and Metabolism».

If you are in doubt

The main symptoms of diabetes mellitus:

• frequent urination;
• visual impairment;
• weight loss;
• constant thirst;
• dry mouth;
• fatigue;
• high blood sugar and glycated hemoglobin.

Normally, a blood sugar level of a healthy person (analysis is performed on an empty stomach) should not exceed 5.5 mmol/l. During the day after eating – 7.8 mmol/l. The norm for glycated hemoglobin is no higher than 5.7%.

Reasons that can lead to the development of the disease:

Reasons that can lead to the development of the disease:

• heredity;
• obesity;
• stresses;
• physical inactivity;
• concomitant diseases – arterial hypertension, atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease.

By the way, you can independently assess your risk of developing diabetes here.