Asians are at higher risk of developing diabetes

29 March 2019

Diabetes is a life-long disease that we frequently hear or read about in the media and among our peers. It is a chronic disease where the body does not produce or properly use insulin, a hormone needed to convert sugar, starches, and other food into the energy that we use as we go about our daily lives. Although the cause of diabetes is not known, it is generally agreed that both genetics and the environment play important roles.

This disease, in particular type 2 diabetes has become a global health concern that can potentially threaten the economy of any nation, especially in developing nations. Many of these developing nations happen to be in Asia and with its rapid urbanisation coupled with a large population leading increasingly sedentary lifestyles, diabetes continues to accelerate at an alarming rate.

Asia accounts for 60% of the world’s diabetic population. A study in the Journal of American Medical Association shows that Asians develop diabetes at younger ages. Reviewing 20 years of research on diabetes in Asia, the study's authors, scientists Frank Hu of Harvard's School of Public Health and Juliana Chan of the Chinese University of Hong Kong, found that in Asian populations the risk of diabetes starts at a lower Body Mass Index.

Several factors contribute to this epidemic among Asians – high intake of refined/processed carbohydrates, e.g. rice, high usage of alcohol and cigarettes, as well as insufficient/decreased physical activity.

To better understand this disease, we spoke to a Consultant Endocrinologist, Podiatrist, Diabetes Nurse Specialist and Dietician at Sunway Medical Centre.

Annual checkups more important than you think

Symptoms of diabetes vary and may include weight loss, increased fatigue, blurred vision and an increased need to urinate. As many of these symptoms are commonly experienced by healthy individuals, Diabetes Nurse Specialist, Zaifa Khatum says, “The only way to check for the disease is to go for regular medical checkups and make sure you test your blood sugar level.”

Moderation in your food intake is key

Diet is a crucial part of diabetes management. Senior Dietitian, Saw Bee Suan explains, “What diabetics need to be aware of is the serving size. Everything must be consumed in moderation and so it is important that diabetics plan their meals. Plain white rice, which is a typical Asian staple food, can be substituted with brown rice or white basmati rice. ” An ideal meal should contain a balanced choice of food items in recommended portions as shown in the “healthy meal plate” (refer to diagram).

Diabetics can also include more high fiber foods in their diet as fiber helps to slow down the absorption of sugar by the body.

Keep glucose levels in check when starting a family

Gestational diabetes affects pregnant women who exhibit high glucose levels. Unfortunately, these women are at a higher risk of being diagnosed with diabetes later on in life.

Women planning to start a family should work with their doctors to ensure healthy glucose levels at the time of conception. “The first trimester of a pregnancy is crucial to a child’s development. If sugar levels are poorly controlled, the development of the baby can be affected. So it is important that diabetic women who wish to get pregnant to plan and seek their doctor’s opinion as to whether their sugar control is optimal,” says Endocrinologist, Dr Siti Harnida Md Isa.

Pay attention to the well-being of your feet

People with diabetes often suffer from ischemia, a reduction of blood flow to their peripheries, and neuropathy, damage to their nerves, resulting in poor blood circulation and a reduction in the sensation in a patient’s feet. This leads to deterioration in the general health of their feet, and a reduction in the rate of healing and to the sensation of injury. An untreated ulcer on the foot can become infected and lead to sepsis, gangrene, and in the more severe cases, amputation.

Diabetic patients are advised to take a sensible approach to foot care ensuring their feet are clean and adjusting their foot wear to ensure balanced pressure and support. “All diabetic patients should have their feet checked at least yearly,” says Podiatrist, Dr. Brendan J Bergin.  

For more information on diabetes management, including access to medical experts who are able to provide support, counseling and educational services, please visit the Diabetes Care Centre at Sunway Medical Centre or contact a Diabetes Nurse Specialist at 603-7491 9191 (ext. 11139/11149).

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