Diabetes: A Growing Concern in Malaysia
The Dangers of Diabetes
Diabetes is among the most feared non-communicable diseases due to its potential to trigger complications that can lead to kidney disease, heart disease, and stroke.
The High Prevalence of Diabetes in Malaysia
Despite various efforts by the government to raise public awareness about the dangers of diabetes, Malaysia continues to record the highest prevalence of the disease in Southeast Asia. In August, Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad was quoted as saying that one out of six Malaysians have diabetes.
The Importance of Early Detection
This lifestyle disease can be prevented if the public takes note of prediabetes symptoms, which are early warning signs of a possible future diagnosis of diabetes. Prediabetes is a condition where a person’s blood sugar levels are relatively elevated but not high enough to be categorised as diabetes.
Prediabetes Symptoms
According to Dr Teoh Wei Leng, consultant endocrinologist at Sunway Medical Centre in Bandar Sunway, Selangor, prediabetes usually does not present with symptoms. However, when symptoms do occur, they may include frequent urination, fatigue, blurred vision, numbness in the hands or feet, slow-healing wounds, and unexpected weight loss. There are also certain signs that can indicate prediabetes, such as having patches of skin on the neck, armpits, or groin that are darker than other areas of the body.
The Risks of Prediabetes
Dr Teoh added that although prediabetes may not always progress to diabetes, it is crucial for individuals to manage the condition as it increases the risk of developing diabetes. According to the American Diabetes Association, those aged around 45 who are identified as having prediabetes have a nine to 14 percent risk of developing diabetes within 10 years. What is most concerning is that an increasing number of young people in Malaysia, including children, are being diagnosed with prediabetes, particularly those who are overweight.
Risks of Unmanaged Prediabetes
Dr Teoh explained that individuals with unmanaged prediabetes are at a greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes, a condition that can trigger various other health complications. Type 2 diabetes is a lifelong disease where the body either cannot produce enough insulin or cannot use insulin effectively. Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. Insulin resistance or deficiency in the body can cause blood sugar levels to become excessively high.
The Consequences of Uncontrolled Diabetes
High blood sugar is highly toxic to blood vessels and internal organs. Therefore, diabetes is not just a sugar-related issue but it also affects other organs, ultimately leading to conditions such as heart disease, stroke, cholesterol problems, hypertension, and kidney disease. If diabetes among the country’s population remains uncontrolled, Malaysia will continue to face significant burdens, not only financially but also through reduced productivity due to the loss of workforce.
The Importance of Prevention
The best treatment for diabetes patients is to lose weight, adopt a healthier lifestyle by engaging in physical activity, and maintain a balanced diet. According to the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2023, 95.1 percent of Malaysians fail to consume the recommended five servings of fruits and vegetables daily. The same survey also found that nearly 80 percent of Malaysians do not engage in the recommended level of physical activity, which is 150 minutes per week.
Controlling Sugar Intake
Sunway Medical Centre paediatrician and paediatric endocrinologist Dr Ch’ng Tong Wooi said overeating and obesity are exposing the younger generation, particularly children, to prediabetes and diabetes. Controlling intake of sugar in daily food consumption is important, especially for children, as excessive calorie consumption leads to obesity, which is a major contributor to type 2 diabetes in young people. Foods high in refined carbohydrates, such as kuih, cakes, and pastries, also increase the risk of obesity, which indirectly leads to diabetes.
Conclusion
Diabetes is a growing concern in Malaysia, and it is essential that we take immediate action to prevent and manage the disease. By being aware of prediabetes symptoms, managing our diet and lifestyle, and engaging in regular physical activity, we can reduce the risk of developing diabetes. It is also crucial that we educate ourselves and our children about the dangers of diabetes and take steps to prevent it.
FAQs
Q: What is prediabetes?
A: Prediabetes is a condition where a person’s blood sugar levels are relatively elevated but not high enough to be categorised as diabetes.
Q: What are the symptoms of prediabetes?
A: The symptoms of prediabetes may include frequent urination, fatigue, blurred vision, numbness in the hands or feet, slow-healing wounds, and unexpected weight loss.
Q: How can I prevent diabetes?
A: You can prevent diabetes by maintaining a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and managing your weight.
Q: Can diabetes be cured?
A: Diabetes cannot be cured, but it can be managed with proper health and lifestyle practices.