NCD Watch

Preventing Type 2 Diabetes by Lifestyle Changes

12 November 2024 (Tue)

Diabetes mellitus (or simply called diabetes) is a chronic metabolic disease characterized by elevated levels of blood glucose. Type 2 diabetes is the most common form, accounting for over 95% of diabetes worldwide. The development of diabetes is strongly associated with an unhealthy living as well as obesity.

Diabetes is a major cause of ill-health among location population. According to the Population Health survey (PHS) 2020-22 conducted by the Department of Health (DH), 8.5% of persons aged 15-84 had diabetes or raised blood glucose.

To reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, members of the public are encouraged to live in healthy ways and make appropriate lifestyle changes that include consuming a healthy diet, conducting regular physical activity, refraining from alcohol drinking and no smoking. Individuals should also maintain an optimal body weight and waist circumference. Regardless of genetic risk, a study with over 550 000 Chinese adults showed that adherence to a healthy lifestyle was associated with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes.

Type 2 diabetes is often asymptomatic in early stages. People can be living with the disease for years and not know it. Local adults aged 45 or above are encouraged to screen for type 2 diabetes. If results are normal, screening should be conducted again every three years. Members of the public are encouraged to consult their family doctors if they have any questions about diabetes or relevant screening recommendations.

To halt the rise of diabetes, the DH will continue step up efforts in enhancing public awareness about the importance of healthy living in diabetes prevention, as well as working in close partnership with other government departments and community partners to foster a health-enhancing environment. Members of the public are urged to maintain vigilance against diabetes, choosing to live in healthy ways for reducing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Source: NCD Watch November 2024