Diabetes - Is it a serious disease?

Well, in Malaysia it is estimated that the prevalence of diabetes was 942,000 in 2000, is projected to increase to 2,479,000 by 2030. Source: WHO http://www.who.int/diabetes/facts/world_figures/en/index6.html

The word 'prevalence' of Diabetes usually means the estimated population of people who are managing Diabetes at any given time (i.e. people with Diabetes). The term 'incidence' of Diabetes means the annual diagnosis rate, or the number of new cases of Diabetes diagnosed each year (i.e. getting Diabetes). Hence, these two statistics types can differ: a short disease like flu can have high annual incidence but low prevalence, but a life-long disease like diabetes has a low annual incidence but high prevalence.

Did you know that diabetes is the leading cause of adult blindness,kidney failure, and amputations? Diabetes is a growing problem for Asian Americans and Pacific
Islanders. But you can manage your diabetes and stay healthy – by controlling your blood sugar levels. Keep your blood sugar close to normal by choosing healthy foods
and getting regular exercise. Take your prescribed medications and test your blood sugar on a regular basis.

Manage your diabetes. You’ll feel better and have more energy. Best of all, you will lower your chances for serious health problems later on. You one have one life, take good care of it.