Diabetes Treatment Guidelines Singapore

Diabetes is a worldwide health problem that affects millions of people. Singapore is no exception, and the prevalence of diabetes in Singapore is rising. This is why it is important for Singaporeans to know about the diabetes treatment guidelines Singapore has in place.

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder in which the body does not produce enough insulin or does not use the insulin it produces effectively. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas which helps the body use glucose (sugar) as energy. When the body does not produce or use insulin properly, the levels of glucose in the blood become too high, leading to a condition called hyperglycemia. This can cause serious health problems, including damage to the heart, eyes, kidneys, and nerves. Type 1 diabetes is usually diagnosed in children and is an autoimmune disorder. Type 2 diabetes is usually diagnosed in adults and is usually caused by lifestyle factors, such as unhealthy diet and lack of physical activity.

Diabetes Treatment Guidelines Singapore

The aim of diabetes treatment guidelines Singapore is to reduce the impact of diabetes on individuals and the population as a whole. The guidelines are based on the best available evidence and aim to improve the quality of care for people with diabetes. The guidelines recommend lifestyle changes such as healthy eating, regular physical activity, and quitting smoking. They also recommend regular screening and monitoring of blood sugar levels, as well as the use of medications such as insulin, metformin, and sulphonylureas.

Healthy Eating for Diabetes

Healthy eating is an important part of diabetes treatment. The guidelines recommend eating a balanced diet that is high in fibre, low in fat and sugar, and includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. It is also important to limit the intake of saturated fats, trans fats, and sodium. Additionally, the guidelines recommend limiting the consumption of processed and fried foods, as well as reducing the overall calorie intake.

Regular Physical Activity

Regular physical activity is another important part of diabetes treatment. The guidelines recommend a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week. This should include aerobic activities such as walking, jogging, swimming, or cycling, as well as strength-training activities such as lifting weights. Additionally, the guidelines recommend avoiding activities that increase the risk of falls or injuries, such as skiing or horseback riding.

Screening and Monitoring

The guidelines recommend regular screening and monitoring of blood sugar levels. This should be done at least every three months, or more frequently if recommended by a doctor. Additionally, the guidelines recommend regular screening for complications such as eye problems, kidney disease, and nerve damage. This can help to detect and manage complications early, before they become serious.

Medications

The guidelines recommend the use of medications to control blood sugar levels. The most commonly used medications are insulin, metformin, and sulphonylureas. If these medications are not enough to control blood sugar levels, other medications may be prescribed. Additionally, the guidelines recommend lifestyle modifications such as healthy eating and regular physical activity as important components of diabetes treatment.

Quitting Smoking

The guidelines recommend quitting smoking as part of diabetes treatment. Smoking increases the risk of complications from diabetes, such as damage to the heart, eyes, and kidneys. Quitting smoking can reduce the risk of these complications and improve overall health.

Conclusion

Diabetes is a serious health problem in Singapore, and it is important for Singaporeans to be aware of the diabetes treatment guidelines Singapore has in place. The guidelines recommend lifestyle changes such as healthy eating, regular physical activity, and quitting smoking, as well as regular screening and monitoring of blood sugar levels and the use of medications. Following these guidelines can help to reduce the impact of diabetes on individuals and the population as a whole.