HPA Reveals Diabetes Afflicts 14% of Maldives Population
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The Health Protection Agency (HPA) statistics reveal that 14 percent of the population in the Maldives is grappling with diabetes.
The Health Protection Agency (HPA) statistics reveal that 14 percent of the population in the Maldives is grappling with diabetes.
Read more: https://t.co/zqL6bT4g3L— MV+ (@mvplusmedia) November 15, 2023advertisement
The revelation comes as part of the STEP survey conducted between 2020 and 2021, aimed at assessing the prevalence of non-communicable diseases in the region.
World Diabetes Day, marked globally, prompted the HPA to release these figures, shedding light on the significant health concern.
Of particular concern is the revelation that 90 percent of those affected in the Maldives are battling type-2 diabetes, a form of diabetes mellitus characterised by the body’s production of insulin but coupled with factors like excess weight and reduced physical activity.
Diabetes, a widespread global health issue, occurs when an individual’s blood sugar levels exceed normal limits. There are two main types: “type-1 diabetes,” where the body doesn’t produce enough insulin, and “type-2 diabetes,” where the body’s insulin production is hindered by factors such as weight gain and inactivity.
Several risk factors contribute to the onset of diabetes, including a family history of the disease, smoking, exposure to tobacco smoke, and high blood sugar during pregnancy.
This year’s World Diabetes Day focuses on the theme “Recognise the Barriers and Take Action,” urging a collective effort to address the challenges associated with diabetes.
Recognising the importance of early detection, individuals are advised to be vigilant for symptoms such as frequent urination, excessive thirst, abnormal hunger, rapid weight changes, and fatigue.
As the global community comes together to raise awareness about diabetes, the call to action echoes the need for both individual and collective efforts to tackle this prevalent health issue.
