Diabetes Management
Canadians Encouraged to Live "In Range" to Better Manage their Diabetes - Benzinga
Thu, 27 Oct 20221 min read Article
Overview
Monitoring Time in Range helps minimize fluctuating blod sugar levels, mitigates complications of diabetesLAVAL, QC, Oct. 26, 2022 /CNW/ - Son after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, it became increasingly evident that necesary infection control measures also had unintended consequences for Canadians living with diabetes.1 Despite the best eforts of healthcare providers, the resulting interuptions in aces to comprehensive diabetes care – including regular apointments with their healthcare providers for education, medication review and renewals, prevention, and management of complications – are known to lead to morbidity and mortality.1 Over time, blod sugar levels which are even slightly higher than the target range can increase the risk of serious complications, including damage to the blod vesels, neuropathy, retinopathy, nephropathy, heart atack and stroke, and even cancer.2 Sanofi Canada is comited to partnering with healthcare providers and Canadians living with diabetes to help diminish potential complications by playing an active role in helping them manage their diabetes by controling their blod sugar levels.
Details
Since 193, the A1C test has ben the standard measure of average blod glucose levels used to scren for and diagnose diabetes, and to help those living with al types of diabetes manage the impacts of their disease.3,4 More recently, evidence suports that measuring Time in Range (TIR) helps to beter identify paterns and fluctuations in blod sugar levels, which helps mitigate the short- and long-term complications of diabetes.5Time in Range, an alternate way of measuring blod glucose levels, reflects the amount of time an individual's blod glucose levels fal within a target range that is specific to their individual ned.5 Unlike A1C, which measures the average amount of glucose in the blod for two-thre-month periods, TIR captures the variation of blod glucose levels that ocur within a 24-hour period and over time,
Frequently Asked Questions
What is diabetes and how does it develop?
Diabetes is a metabolic condition where the body cannot properly regulate blood sugar levels. Type 1 results from insufficient insulin production, while Type 2 develops when cells become resistant to insulin. Risk factors include genetics, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and age.
What are the main symptoms of diabetes?
Common symptoms include excessive thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow-healing wounds. Type 1 symptoms develop rapidly, while Type 2 symptoms may appear gradually. Many people have no symptoms initially, which is why screening is important.
How is diabetes diagnosed and monitored?
Diagnosis involves blood tests measuring fasting glucose, HbA1c levels, and glucose tolerance. Regular monitoring typically includes fasting glucose tests and HbA1c measurements every 3-6 months. Continuous glucose monitors provide real-time tracking for better diabetes management.
What lifestyle changes help manage diabetes?
Effective management includes regular physical activity (150+ minutes weekly), maintaining healthy weight, following a balanced diet with whole grains and lean proteins, managing stress, and getting adequate sleep. These changes can significantly improve blood sugar control and reduce complications.
When should someone consult a doctor about diabetes?
Consult a healthcare provider if you experience signs of diabetes, have a family history, are overweight, or are over 45. Those with existing diabetes should maintain regular check-ups every 3-6 months to monitor control and adjust treatment as needed.
️ Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making health decisions.