Diabetes and Your Health in Kenya
In Kenya, more people are being diagnosed with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes, as well as other types of diabetes. It is critical to learn what diabetes is, its causes, symptoms, and how you can manage it.
Types of Diabetes
There are two main types of diabetes:
Type 1 Diabetes
This occurs when your body can’t make any insulin at all. It usually appears early in life, though it can occur at any age.
Type 2 DiabeteS
This is the most common type of diabetes, particularly in Kenya. If you have type 2 diabetes, your body either doesn’t make enough insulin or the insulin you make doesn’t work properly.
There are also other types of diabetes, including:
Gestational Diabetes
This occurs during pregnancy and increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later on.
Prediabetes
This is when blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be classified as diabetes. It is a warning sign of type 2 diabetes.
Diabetes Remission
Did you know that some people with type 2 diabetes can achieve diabetes remission? Diabetes remission means that your blood sugar levels return to a healthy range without needing to take medication. In Kenya, where type 2 diabetes is on the rise, this could be a life-changing option for many individuals.
Achieving remission typically involves significant lifestyle changes, such as losing weight, eating a balanced diet, and increasing physical activity. Not everyone will be able to achieve remission, but for those who do, it can be a huge relief, freeing them from the daily management of diabetes.
If you’re interested in learning more about diabetes remission, talk to your healthcare provider for advice and support on how to pursue this path.
Causes of Diabetes
The causes of diabetes vary depending on the type:
- Type 1 Diabetes: This is an autoimmune condition where the body attacks the cells that produce insulin. The exact cause isn’t fully understood, but genetics and environmental factors may play a role.
- Type 2 Diabetes: This is largely related to lifestyle factors such as being overweight, inactive, or having a poor diet. In Kenya, with the rise of processed foods and sedentary lifestyles, type 2 diabetes is becoming more common.
Regardless of the type, all forms of diabetes result in too much glucose in the blood because insulin is either insufficient or ineffective.
Symptoms of Diabetes
The symptoms of diabetes can depend on the type, but common symptoms include:
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- Feeling thirsty all the time
- Feeling tired or fatigued
- Losing weight without trying
- Genital itching or frequent thrush
- Cuts and wounds that take longer to heal
- Blurred vision
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to visit a doctor to be tested for diabetes. Early diagnosis is key to preventing complications.
Managing Diabetes in Kenya
Living with diabetes can be challenging, but with the right support, you can manage your condition effectively. If you’re diagnosed with diabetes, your treatment will aim to keep your blood sugar levels within a healthy range. This may involve lifestyle changes like eating a healthy diet, being more active, and monitoring your blood sugar levels. Some people may also need to take insulin or other medications.
In Kenya, managing diabetes may involve accessing healthcare services that offer advice on how to live well with the condition. There are local clinics and support groups to help you stay on track with your health.
Diabetes Complications
If not managed properly, diabetes can lead to complications that affect almost every part of the body. Long-term high blood sugar levels can cause damage to the heart, eyes, kidneys, and feet. However, with good control of your blood sugar levels, the risk of complications is much lower.
Diabetes Research
In Kenya and globally, diabetes research is ongoing to find better ways to manage, treat, and even prevent diabetes. For over 80 years, pioneering research has helped millions of people living with diabetes.
Currently, there is groundbreaking research into diabetes remission, new treatments, and methods to improve quality of life. In Kenya, research efforts are expanding, and you can learn more about the latest projects that are bringing hope to many people with diabetes.
By supporting diabetes research, we’re improving the lives of those living with diabetes today and discovering new ways to fight the condition for future generations.
If you're concerned about diabetes, you can take a simple Know Your Risk test to see if you’re at risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Based on your results, you might need to consult with your doctor and undergo further tests to confirm your diagnosis.
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