Diabetes is one of the most common chronic conditions in the world today, and its presence is growing steadily in Hong Kong. Recent data from 2022 indicates that approximately 8.5% of Hong Kong residents aged 15 to 84 have diabetes or elevated blood glucose levels, with 5.4% self-reporting a doctor-diagnosed condition and an additional 3.1% identified through biochemical testing . With an increasingly busy lifestyle, long work hours, and dietary habits that lean towards convenience over nutrition, many working adults may unknowingly be placing their health at risk. Understanding diabetes is essential to managing the condition effectively and preventing complications from developing.

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What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a condition where the body has difficulty regulating blood sugar (glucose) levels. There are two main types:

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●Type 1 Diabetes:Usually diagnosed in children or young adults, Type 1 diabetes is caused by the immune system attacking insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. People with Type 1 diabetes have no insulin and need daily insulin injections to survive.

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●Type 2 Diabetes: Far more common, especially among adults, Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body doesn’t use insulin properly or doesn’t produce enough. It's often linked to lifestyle factors such as diet, lack of exercise, and excess weight.

In both cases, unmanaged diabetes leads to high blood sugar levels, which over time can damage vital organs like the heart, kidneys, eyes, and nerves.

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Risk Factors for Diabetes

Several factors can contribute to an increased risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. These include:

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Understanding and managing these risk factors can go a long way in preventing or delaying the onset of diabetes.

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Common Symptoms and Early Warning Signs

While Type 2 diabetes often develops gradually, making early symptoms easy to overlook, both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes share common warning signs. These symptoms can include:

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●Frequent urination

●Excessive thirst or hunger

●Fatigue

●Blurred vision

●Slow wound healing

●Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet

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Prompt consultation with a healthcare provider is important if any of these symptoms are noticed, as early diagnosis significantly reduces the risk of complications.

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How is Diabetes Diagnosed?

Diagnosing diabetes typically involves a series of blood tests that measure how effectively the body manages glucose. These tests are usually recommended if diabetes symptoms are present or if an individual falls into a high-risk group.

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The most commonly used diagnostic tests include:

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Fasting Blood Sugar Test

The Fasting Blood Sugar Test measures blood glucose levels after fasting (having nothing to eat or drink except water) for at least 8 hours. Blood glucose levels are measured in millimole per litre (mmol/L), a unit that indicates the concentration of glucose in blood. In the USA, it is usually expressed in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL).

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Interpreting the test results:

●Normal: A result below 5.6 mmol/L (100 mg/dL) is considered within the healthy range.

●Prediabetes: A reading between 5.6 to 6.9 mmol/L (100 and 125 mg/dL) indicates prediabetes, a condition where your blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be classified as diabetes.

●Diabetes: A result of 7.0 mmol/L (126 mg/dL) or higher on two separate occasions confirms a diagnosis of diabetes.

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What Does Prediabetes Mean for Your Body?

When blood sugar levels fall within the prediabetes range (5.6 to 6.9 mmol/L), it indicates that the body is beginning to have difficulty managing glucose. During this stage, the body’s cells become less responsive to insulin, the hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar levels. Although diabetes has not yet developed, prediabetes significantly increases the risk of progressing to Type 2 diabetes over time. However, with lifestyle changes, such as adopting a healthier diet, increasing physical activity, and losing weight, it’s possible to return blood sugar levels to normal and prevent the onset of diabetes.

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HbA1c Test (Glycated Haemoglobin)

The HbA1c test measures the average blood sugar levels over the past 3 months by determining the percentage of haemoglobin bound to sugar in the blood.

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○A level below 5.7% is considered normal.

○A level between 5.7% and 6.4% indicates prediabetes.

○A level of 6.5% or higher typically confirms diabetes.

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Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT)

Often used for diagnosing gestational diabetes (during pregnancy), this test involves taking a fasting blood sugar reading, drinking a glucose-rich beverage, and then measuring blood sugar levels at intervals (usually after 1 and 2 hours).

○A 2-hour glucose level of 11.1 mmol/L (200 mg/dL) or higher suggests diabetes.

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Random Blood Sugar Test

The Random Blood Sugar Test measures blood sugar at any given time, regardless of when the individual last ate. A result of 11.1 mmol/L (200 mg/dL) or higher, coupled with symptoms of diabetes, may be sufficient to confirm a diagnosis.

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Managing Diabetes: Lifestyle and Medical Approaches

While diabetes is a lifelong condition, both type 1 and type 2 can be effectively managed through a combination of healthy habits and medication if needed.

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1. Balanced Diet

A healthy diet plays a crucial role in managing diabetes. It helps regulate blood sugar, maintain a healthy weight, and reduce the risk of complications. Here’s how to make smarter food choices:

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●Whole Grains & Vegetables: Opt for whole grains like brown rice and whole wheat, and fill half your plate with non-starchy vegetables. These foods are high in fiber, which helps control blood sugar levels.

●Lean Proteins: Include sources like fish, poultry, beans, and tofu. Lean proteins help stabilize blood sugar without adding unhealthy fats.

●Limit Sugary Foods & Processed Grains: Reduce sugary snacks, drinks, and processed foods, as they can cause blood sugar spikes. Replace refined grains like white rice with whole grains for better blood sugar control.

●Portion Control: Use smaller plates and measure food to avoid overeating. Portion control helps manage calorie intake and blood sugar levels.

●Plan Ahead: Preparing meals in advance ensures healthier choices and prevents last-minute unhealthy options. Cooking at home gives you control over ingredients and portion sizes.

●Consult a Dietitian: A registered dietitian can provide personalized meal plans and help you manage carb intake and food choices for better diabetes control.

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2. Regular Physical Activity

Exercise enhances the body's ability to use insulin more effectively. It is recommended to engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week, such as brisk walking, swimming, or cycling. Even small changes, like taking the stairs or walking during lunch breaks, can have a positive impact on blood sugar levels.

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3. Medication and Insulin

Some individuals with diabetes may require oral medications or insulin therapy to maintain healthy blood sugar levels. A healthcare provider will determine the most appropriate treatment plan. It is important to follow the prescribed regimen and attend regular medical check-ups.

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4. Monitoring Blood Sugar

Using a home glucose monitor can help individuals understand how different lifestyle choices impact their blood sugar. This enables adjustments to diet, physical activity, or medications to maintain optimal blood sugar control.

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5. Regular Check-up

At Blue Care, we offer a diverse range of health screening packagestailored to meet the needs of individuals at different stages of life. Whether you are a male or female adult looking for a basic health assessment, a middle-aged professional seeking comprehensive screenings, or a senior requiring more specialized tests, our packages are designed to provide thorough evaluations for your unique health requirements. We also offer pre-employment, pre-marital and nutrition check-ups, providing holistic health screening options for you.

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Click here-to read the check-up plan details.

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Empowering Your Diabetes Management

Diabetes may be a lifelong condition, but it doesn’t have to limit your life. With the right knowledge, ongoing care, and healthy habits, diabetes can be effectively managed while maintaining a high quality of life. Whether you’re newly diagnosed, part of a high-risk group, or simply looking to learn more, understanding diabetes empowers you to take proactive steps to prevent complications and protect your long-term health.

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Referene:

1. Centre for Health Protection. (2023). Non-communicable diseases: Diabetes. Retrieved from https://www.chp.gov.hk/en/features/103652.html

2. Health Bureau, Hong Kong SAR Government. (2023). Core Document on Diabetes Care. Retrieved from https://www.healthbureau.gov.hk/phcc/rfs/src/pdfviewer/web/pdf/diabetescare/en/coredocuments/15_en_diabetes_care.pdf

3. International Diabetes Federation. (n.d.). Diabetes Complications. Retrieved from https://idf.org/about-diabetes/diabetes-complications/