Diabetes is a serious condition that affects not only blood sugar levels but also the health of the body’s systems. For Dr. Davidicus Wong, the personal connection to diabetes runs deep, as his grandmother passed away at 62 from kidney failure, a complication of her uncontrolled diabetes. As a physician, Dr. Wong has witnessed firsthand the devastating consequences of diabetes, including preventable blindness, amputations, heart attacks, and strokes.
While diabetes is commonly associated with high blood sugar, it is actually a metabolic disorder that impacts cellular health and the proper functioning of multiple systems throughout the body. However, there is good news: early detection and proactive management of diabetes can delay or even prevent many of its severe complications.
According to Dr. Wong, patients who actively manage their diabetes with the support of a healthcare team can not only reduce the risk of complications but also extend their life expectancy by three to ten years. This additional time allows individuals to live a fuller, healthier life with their loved ones.
Understanding the Risks
Currently, one in every 11 adults over the age of 20 has diabetes. However, some individuals are at a higher risk of developing the condition. For example, women who have had gestational diabetes are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes later in life. Family history also plays a significant role: if one parent has diabetes, an individual’s lifetime risk is 40 percent. If both parents have the condition, the risk increases to 50 percent.
Despite the media’s portrayal of diabetes as an epidemic linked to poor lifestyle choices, Dr. Wong emphasizes that while lifestyle factors do influence the severity and timing of type 2 diabetes, the condition is primarily genetic. By adopting a healthy lifestyle that includes daily exercise, a balanced diet rich in vegetables, and maintaining a healthy weight, individuals can lower their risk. Avoiding excess abdominal fat—a key component of metabolic syndrome—can further reduce the risk of developing diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.
Dr. Wong urges individuals to consult their family doctor about getting screened for diabetes, particularly if they have risk factors such as a family history of the disease. Early diagnosis and proactive management are crucial for living a longer, healthier life.
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