Diabetes is one of the fastest growing health challenges globally and in the UK. There are mainly two types of diabetes, Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes with a few rarer forms as well.
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition, meaning that the body’s own immune system destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. It usually appears in childhood or early adulthood and is not linked to lifestyle. People with type 1 need insulin for life and need regular blood-sugar monitoring.
Type 2 diabetes, on the other hand, develops when the body makes less insulin, but also doesn’t use it properly (a problem called insulin resistance). Type 2 diabetes accounts for around 90% of all cases. People of South Asian, Black African, and Caribbean heritage are up to 2–4 times more likely to develop type 2 diabetes than White people and often at a younger age and lower body weight.
Many years of research shows that several factors play a part in developing Type 2 diabetes including genetics, obesity, dietary patterns, physical activity, socioeconomic factors as well as psychological factors. South Asians tend to carry more body fat around their abdomen and internal organs, even when their BMI is in the “healthy” range and this is one of the reasons they are at high risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.
Previously, Type 2 diabetes was mainly seen in older adults after the age of 40 years., However, Type 2 diabetes is now increasingly diagnosed in young children, teenagers and people in their 20s and 30s. The reasons mirror wider social trends inclduing rising obesity, less physical activity, and more processed, high-calorie foods. Younger onset diabetes means a longer lifetime exposure to high blood sugar levels and other risk factors such as high blood pressure and cholesterol, putting people at greater risk of complications such as heart disease, kidney disease, and vision problems.
The good news is that the majority of type 2 diabetes cases can be prevented or delayed. Even small, consistent changes make a big difference:
- Keep active – aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity (like fast walking) per week.
- Eat a balanced diet – more whole grains, fruit, and vegetables; less processed and fried or sugary foods.
- Maintain a healthy waist size, especially carrying less weight around the middle is key.
- Don’t smoke and limit alcohol.
- Get regular check-ups, especially if diabetes runs in your family.
You can also check your personal Type 2 diabetes risk in minutes using the Diabetes UK “Know Your Risk” tool at www.diabetes.org.uk/risk. It’s free, quick, and helps identify whether you should speak to your staff at your GP practice for further tests.
The other good news is that we have so many options for treatment, however, these treatments especially your risk factors of glucose, blood pressure and cholesterol need to be started from diagnosis. With the right treatment, education, and support, people with diabetes can live long, healthy lives with some studies showing that if well controlled, people with Type 2 diabetes can have the same outcomes as those without Type 2 diabetes. When type 2 diabetes is caught early, blood sugars can often be controlled and in some cases even sent into remission through weight loss and lifestyle change. There are also excellent education programmes for both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes which empower patients and help them take control of their diabetes.
The key is awareness and early diagnosis and early action. Diabetes doesn’t have to define your life but understanding your risk and making changes early could transform your future.