Today November 14th is WORLD DIABETES DAY with the theme – THE NURSE AND DIABETES. This is to raise awareness on the crucial role that nurses play in the prevention and management of diabetes. Presently, the International Diabetes Federation estimates that 1 out of every 10 persons is living with Diabetes and that every 8 seconds, someone dies from diabetes. With this alarming figures, it is recommended that we reduce our risk of diabetes, especially for Type 2 diabetes which is the most common type and yet largely preventable. We can reduce our risk of Type 2 diabetes by:
- Healthy eating – Avoid sugar sweetened soft drinks/beverages, Avoid junk food and snacks, Avoid cholesterol -containing vegetable oil & saturated fats e.g margarine, eat more of vegetables & fruits, take enough water daily, limit alcohol intake.
- Healthy Lifestyle – maintain ideal body weight, regular/daily exercises , avoid sedentary lifestyle.
- Regular medical screening – blood glucose levels, blood pressure, lipid levels.
For those already diagnosed, take medicines as prescribed, regularly monitor blood glucose levels, attend clinic visits regularly to prevent complications.
TOGETHER WE CAN DO IT.
