Understanding Diabetes: What Every Indian Needs to Know

India often celebrates topping global charts—but being called the “diabetic capital of the world” is no badge of honor. With over 77 million diagnosed diabetic patients and 25 million more pre-diabetic individuals, diabetes has reached near-endemic levels in the country. 

Indians are more genetically and culturally predisposed to Type 2 diabetes than many other populations. This increased vulnerability stems from a mix of genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors. 

Despite its growing prevalence, many people still ask: “What exactly is diabetes?”, “Why does it happen?”, or “Can it be prevented?” This article aims to answer those questions simply and clearly—because when it comes to health, knowledge is power. 

What Is Diabetes? 

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic condition in which the body cannot properly regulate blood sugar (glucose) levels. 

Glucose is the main energy source for our body and comes from the food we eat. To process glucose, our body uses insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas. In diabetes, this process is disrupted—either due to insufficient insulin production or the body’s inability to use insulin effectively. 

Types of Diabetes 

Type 1 Diabetes

• Cause: An autoimmune condition that destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. 

• Onset: Typically in childhood or adolescence. 

• Management: Daily insulin injections or use of an insulin pump. 

Type 2 Diabetes

• Cause: The body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough of it. 

• Onset: Most common in adults but increasingly seen in younger individuals due to poor lifestyle habits. 

• Management: Lifestyle changes, oral medications, and sometimes insulin therapy. 

Gestational Diabetes

• Cause: Develops during pregnancy in women without a prior diabetes diagnosis. 

• Risks: Increases chances of complications during pregnancy and developing Type 2 diabetes later in life. 

Prediabetes

• Definition: Blood sugar levels are elevated but not high enough for a Type 2 diagnosis. 

• Importance: A critical warning sign that offers a chance for prevention through lifestyle changes. 

Symptoms of Diabetes 

While some individuals show symptoms early, others may remain undiagnosed until complications occur. Common signs include: 

• Frequent urination 

• Excessive thirst or hunger 

• Fatigue 

• Blurred vision 

• Slow healing wounds 

• Numbness or tingling in hands and feet 

• Sudden weight loss (more common in Type 1) 

Complications of Uncontrolled Diabetes 

Unchecked diabetes can damage almost every organ in the body. Major complications include: 

• Cardiovascular issues: Heart disease and stroke 

• Kidney damage: Diabetic nephropathy 

• Eye conditions: Diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, cataracts 

• Nerve damage: Neuropathy 

• Foot problems: Infections, ulcers, amputations 

How Is Diabetes Diagnosed? 

Doctors use several tests for diagnosis: 

The New-Age Early Detection: Eye Screening 

In addition to traditional tests, eye screening is emerging as a powerful early detection tool. 

Diabetes can silently damage your eyes, often without early symptoms. That’s where fundus photography, enhanced with Artificial Intelligence (AI), comes in. This advanced technology captures high-resolution images of the back of the eye, allowing early diagnosis without the discomfort of traditional dilation drops. 

Early detection through eye scans can prevent blindness and flag the onset of diabetes-related complications. 

Final Thoughts: Take Control Today 

Diabetes doesn’t have to define your life. By being proactive, making healthy choices, and staying informed, you can prevent or manage the condition effectively. 

• Get regular screenings 

• Maintain a healthy diet and weight 

• Stay physically active 

• Understand your genetic risk 

• Keep an eye on your eye health 

Your health is in your hands. Act today, live better tomorrow.