Diabetes: A Brunei affliction

A LOSS of seven to 10 per cent of an individual's weight can reduce one's risk of developing diabetes by up to 60 per cent, the Minister of Health said yesterday.

Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Hj Suyoi Hj Osman said, via a press release, that Brunei is currently embarking on formulating a national diabetes plan that will include immediate action to address the serious diabetes epidemic in the country where as much as 25 per cent of the population is either diagnosed or at risk of developing the chronic disease.

"Diabetes is difficult. It imposes life-long demands on people with diabetes, requiring them to make multiple decisions in order to manage their condition," he said.

"People with diabetes need to monitor their blood glucose, take medication, exercise regularly and adjust their eating habits. Furthermore, they may have to face issues related to living with the complications of diabetes and may be required to make considerable psychological adjustments," he added.

"Education is the key. It is of utmost importance in both the prevention of diabetes and its complications," he said, adding that without diabetes education, people with diabetes are less prepared to make informed decisions, behavioural changes and address the psycho-social issues presented by the disease and ultimately may be ill-equipped to manage their condition effectively.

Pehin Dato Hj Suyoi also stressed on the importance of leading a healthy lifestyle. "Lifestyle changes are fundamental. Exercise is just as important as the food we eat," he said.

"Parents, teachers and other community leaders must join in the awareness campaign. More public information should be provided about the disease, how to identify and manage it," he said before stating that the public will also have to keep themselves informed about diabetes and its dangers.

"Everyone should know diabetes' warning signs, how to prevent or delay the complications of both diabetes and type 2 diabetes," he said.

"To do nothing is not an option," said the minister.

According to an earlier report, as many as 45,000 people in the Sultanate are diagnosed with diabetes while another 45,000 have been found to suffer impaired glucose tolerance, also referred to as pre-diabetes.

The Brunei Times