Understanding Diabetes: Prevention and Management
Comprehensive guide to diabetes prevention, symptoms, and management strategies for Trinidad and Tobago residents.
What is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a chronic condition that occurs when your body cannot properly process glucose (sugar) in your blood. In Trinidad and Tobago, diabetes affects approximately 15.7% of adults, making it one of the most significant health challenges facing our nation.
Types of Diabetes
Usually develops in childhood or adolescence. The body's immune system attacks insulin-producing cells. Requires daily insulin injections for life.
Most common form (90% of cases). Usually develops in adults. The body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn't produce enough. Often preventable through lifestyle changes.
Develops during pregnancy. Usually disappears after birth but increases risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later.
Risk Factors in the Caribbean
Several factors make Caribbean populations particularly susceptible to diabetes:
- Genetic predisposition: African and South Asian ancestry increases risk
- Dietary patterns: High consumption of refined carbohydrates and sugary drinks
- Sedentary lifestyle: Reduced physical activity in urban areas
- Obesity: Increasing rates of overweight and obesity
- Stress: Economic and social stressors affecting health
Warning Signs and Symptoms
- Excessive thirst
- Frequent urination
- Unexplained weight loss
- Extreme fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Slow-healing wounds
- Frequent infections
- Tingling in hands/feet
Prevention Strategies
- • Choose whole grains over refined carbohydrates
- • Increase fruits and vegetables intake
- • Limit sugary drinks and processed foods
- • Control portion sizes
- • Include local healthy options like dasheen, plantain
- • Aim for 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly
- • Include strength training exercises
- • Take advantage of outdoor activities
- • Use stairs instead of elevators
- • Join community sports or walking groups
Management and Treatment
If diagnosed with diabetes, effective management is crucial to prevent complications:
Blood Sugar Monitoring
Regular monitoring helps track how food, activity, and medication affect blood sugar levels. Modern glucose meters are available at pharmacies throughout Trinidad and Tobago.
Medication Management
Work closely with your healthcare provider to determine the right medication regimen. This may include insulin, oral medications, or a combination of treatments.
Lifestyle Modifications
Continue healthy eating and regular exercise even after diagnosis. These remain the cornerstone of diabetes management alongside medication.
Local Resources and Support
Diabetes Association of Trinidad and Tobago
Support groups, education programs, and resources
Public Health Centers
Free diabetes screening and management programs
Chronic Disease Assistance Programme (CDAP)
Government assistance for diabetes medications
When to Seek Medical Help
Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience:
- Blood sugar levels consistently above 300 mg/dL
- Signs of diabetic ketoacidosis (nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain)
- Severe hypoglycemia (confusion, loss of consciousness)
- Persistent high blood sugar despite medication
- Signs of complications (vision changes, foot problems)
Diabetes is a manageable condition. With proper care, monitoring, and lifestyle adjustments, people with diabetes can live full, healthy lives. Early detection and intervention are key to preventing complications and maintaining quality of life.