World Diabetes Day: Diabetes is rapidly taking its toll on people. According to the WHO, India could become the diabetes capital of the world by 2030. The reason behind this is a poor lifestyle. Diabetes increases the risk of many diseases.

Diabetes And Heart Health: Diabetes is one of the most serious health challenges of our time. Approximately 600 million adults worldwide suffer from type 2 diabetes. According to the 11th edition of the Diabetes Atlas of the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), in 2025, an estimated 589 million adults worldwide aged 20-79 will be living with diabetes. This means that one in every nine adults will be a victim of diabetes. This number is projected to increase to 853 million by 2050.

India could become the diabetes capital of the world

In India, approximately 1 in 10 people suffer from diabetes, and according to the WHO, India could become the diabetes capital of the world by 2030. Therefore, it's important to understand the risks that increase rapidly with this disease. Given the dangers of diabetes, World Diabetes Day is celebrated on November 14th to raise awareness about this disease.

Type 2 diabetes is caused by poor lifestyle and eating habits. If this disease develops, it affects the entire body. Persistently high blood sugar levels can damage the nerves, kidneys, eyes, heart, and even the brain. This is why it is also known as a slow killer disease.

What risks are increased by diabetes?

Heart Disease

Diabetics have a significantly higher risk of heart attack. Research suggests that people with diabetes have a two- to four-fold increased risk of heart attack. Elevated blood sugar levels accelerate plaque buildup in the coronary arteries.

Kidney Failure (Diabetic Nephropathy)

Diabetes is the leading cause of kidney failure worldwide. Data shows that approximately 30–40% of diabetic patients develop kidney damage. If left uncontrolled, they may need dialysis within 10–15 years.

Diabetic Retinopathy

High blood sugar levels weaken the nerves in the eyes, leading to vision loss. This can sometimes even lead to blindness. Retinopathy occurs in approximately 25–30% of patients.

Risk of Stroke

Diabetes also has a negative impact on the nerves in the brain, which doubles the risk of stroke.

Neuropathy

Tingling, burning, or numbness in the feet is often a sign of diabetic neuropathy. About 50% of people with diabetes have some form of neuropathy.

Diabetic Foot and Gangrene Risk

Foot ulcers affect the nerves and blood circulation in the feet, leading to poor healing. Millions of patients suffer from foot ulcers every year. In severe cases, amputation is sometimes necessary.

High blood pressure (hypertension)

Diabetes and high blood pressure often coexist. Research has found that 67% of people with diabetes also have high blood pressure.

Liver Disease (Fatty Liver)

Increased insulin resistance causes fat to accumulate in the liver. Therefore, diabetics are advised to eat smaller meals but more frequently. Fatty liver is found in 50–70% of diabetic patients.

Skin & Fungal Infections

High sugar levels weaken the skin's immune system, increasing the risk of frequent fungal infections, sores, and itching.

Mental stress and depression

Blood sugar imbalances also affect mental health. Diabetes patients have a two-fold increased risk of depression.

Important precautions for diabetic patients

• Diabetes patients have to check their blood sugar regularly.
• Walk for at least 30-40 minutes every day.
• Avoid rice, sugar, wheat, and refined flour. If you do, follow the dosage recommended by your doctor.
• Get good sleep and avoid stress.
• Get your eyes, kidneys, and heart checked every year.

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