Diabetes is one of the top ten deadly chronic diseases in Hong Kong. More than 20% of people over the age of 65 suffer from diabetes.

Cause:

• Old age Obesity Family inheritance Lack of physical activity Endocrine disease, pancreatic disease, and drugs such as steroids can easily induce diabetes

Diabetes increases the risk of other diseases, such as:

• Cerebrovascular diseases such as stroke, etc. Heart disease such as heart failure and other foot ulcers, infections (lower limb ulcers and infection that do not heal for a long time may require amputation of lower limbs) Retinopathy such as cataracts, glaucoma Kidney diseases such as proteinuria, infection

Types of diabetes:

• Type 1 diabetes (insulin-dependent), which is related to genetic and autoimmune system factors Type 2 diabetes (non-insulin-dependent), which is related to factors such as poor eating habits, obesity and lack of exercise

Prevention method:

• Friends can maintain a moderate weight, maintain a proper waist circumference, eat a balanced diet, do regular physical activity and avoid alcohol to prevent diabetes

Please click the link below for more information on high blood pressure

• Caring for the Elderly Association "Knowing Diabetes" Pamphlet
• Hospital Authority. (2023, April). Diabetes
• Center for Health Protection. (2022, July). Diabetes