Statistics from health authorities continue to show a troubling rise in non-communicable diseases (NCDs) severely impacting many lives. For example, the number of people suffering from diabetes, hypertension, cancer, and other conditions is increasing at an alarming rate. However, these diseases can be prevented, often through simple and accessible means for everyone.
Health is priceless! While there are well known and long established diseases, today, non communicable diseases are becoming more prevalent and claiming many lives. Unfortunately, many people are not taking proactive measures to prevent them.
Today, Let’s Discuss Diabetes
Diabetes is a serious illness that claims numerous lives worldwide, often after a long struggle for those affected. Some warning signs that might indicate diabetes include frequent urination, constant thirst, kidney issues, tingling sensations in the hands or feet, blurry vision, unexplained weight loss, persistent dry mouth, and more.
Dr. Ntaganda Evariste, a cardiovascular disease specialist at the Rwanda Biomedical Center (RBC), told umuringanews.com that the main signs of potential diabetes include frequent urination, feeling thirsty, kidney complications, numbness in the extremities, vision issues, unexplained weight loss, and persistent thirst, among others.
Like other non-communicable diseases, various factors can contribute to diabetes. The surprising thing is that all of these factors are preventable, but only a few people take that step. Preventative measures include avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol intake, choosing the right fruits, exercising regularly, checking for high blood pressure, avoiding high cholesterol, and preventing obesity.
Facing the Reality…
As with any serious illness, discovering a diabetes diagnosis can be overwhelming. A 58-year-old man living in Nyakabanda, Kigali, shared how he discovered his condition: “I found out three years ago and have since been taking prescribed medication. At first, I was devastated, but I regained strength by following the advice I was given.”
He began noticing persistent thirst and frequent urination, which led him to consult a doctor. Over three years, he lost 30 kilograms from his initial weight of 90 kg through prescribed medication and a strict diet. He encourages everyone to undergo testing for non-communicable diseases, which are life-threatening and continue to claim many lives.
A 42-year-old diabetic, who is also a doctor, also advises people to get tested. He says, “Diabetes is a slow killer, requiring constant vigilance in everything you do. I recommend people get tested, as research shows one in two people may be diabetic without knowing it.”
He further advises visiting doctors whenever one notices changes, exercising regularly, avoiding industrial sugars, following medical advice, and taking medications as prescribed if diagnosed.
BY KAYITESI Ange
