Diabetes Australia believe that diabetes is “the epidemic of the 21st century….the fastest growing chronic condition in Australia…and the biggest challenge confronting Australia’s health system”.
Around 1.7 million Australians have diabetes. Over 100,000 Australian have developed it in the last 12 months, That means 280 cases every day. And it is the leading cause of preventable blindness in Australia, and causes over 4400 amputations each year.
National Diabetes Week (July 14-20) aims to raise community awareness of the risk factors, getting a check up and how best to manage diabetes.
Diabetes is a metabolic condition that impacts our body’s ability to regulate blood glucose levels. Glucose is a form of sugar which is the main source of energy for our bodies. If levels of glucose in the blood (blood sugar) are too high it can lead to serious long term and short term health complications.
There are 3 types of diabetes, all with similar health implications: Type 1, Type 2 and Gestational Diabetes.
Most common is Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) representing 85-90% of all diabetes cases and it also the most preventable. By managing and/or altering our lifestyle, such as exercise and diet; you can improve management of T2DM, slow it down or reduce the risk of developing it.
Diabetes risk factors include; Poor diet, Overweight/obesity, Heart Disease, Smoking, Lack of Exercise, Hypertension, Being over the age of 40 and family history of diabetes.
Important factors in diabetes management include: Healthy Food choices, Not smoking, Aerobic Exercise and Strength & Conditioning Exercise. These can all help to improve blood glucose control, lower blood pressure, improve muscle mass, improve heart and lung function and maintain a healthy weight.
Increase in physical activity levels can reduce the incidence of T2DM by almost 60% in people at risk.
Diabetes can be managed. It can be slowed down. In some cases it can be prevented. But it is important to know how to best manage diabetes safely and correctly. Physioworks Health Group can help you to manage diabetes.
If you, a family member, friend or colleague are concerned about diabetes or any of the associated risk factors, call one of the Exercise Physiology team at Physioworks Health Group to access your condition and discuss a tailored exercise program for your specific needs.
Contact Exercise Physiologist Dylan D’Souza at Physioworks Cranbourne on 5995 1111 or speak to our reception team at your preferred Physioworks clinic.
Sources:
https://www.diabetesaustralia.com.au/diabetes-in-australia
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