Nancy Nakhoul, MD. MSc.
Endocrinology and Metabolism

Diabetes is one of the most frequent chronic diseases worldwide. According to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), more than 580 million people across the globe are living with diabetes — a number expected to rise significantly in the coming years.

In Lebanon, the situation mirrors global trends: recent data published in BMC Public Health shows that around 16% of adults are likely to have diabetes. This means that nearly one to two adults in every ten people you meet may be living with this condition diagnosed or not.

What Increases the Risk of Diabetes?

Diabetes does not develop overnight. Several factors increase a person’s risk, including:

Obesity and overweight: Excess body fat, especially around the abdomen, reduces the body’s ability to use insulin effectively, a state called Insulin Resistance that will lead to increased glucose level if not managed appropriately. 

Family history: Having a parent or sibling with diabetes greatly raises your risk.

Sedentary lifestyle: Lack of physical activity contributes to weight gain and insulin resistance.

Unhealthy diet: Diets high in refined carbohydrates, sugars, and processed foods can gradually impair glucose control.

Age and ethnicity: Risk increases with age and may be higher in certain populations.

History of gestational diabetes or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in women can also raise risk.

How Many Types of Diabetes we have?

There are three main types of diabetes, each with different causes but similar effects on blood sugar levels:

Type 1 Diabetes:

An autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. It usually appears in childhood or young adulthood and requires lifelong insulin treatment.

Type 2 Diabetes:

The most common form, accounting for over 90% of all cases. It occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t make enough of it. It’s strongly linked to obesity, family history, and lifestyle factors, but can often be prevented or delayed with healthy habits.

Gestational Diabetes:

This type develops during pregnancy and usually resolves after delivery, but it increases the mother’s and baby’s risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.

Recognizing the Symptoms

Many people live with diabetes without knowing it. Early detection is key. Common symptoms include:

• Frequent urination, especially at night
• Excessive thirst or hunger
• Unexplained weight changes
• Fatigue or weakness
• Blurred vision
• Slow-healing wounds or frequent infections

If you notice these signs, consult your doctor for simple blood tests that can confirm or rule out diabetes.

Prevention Starts with Lifestyle

The good news is that type 2 diabetes is largely preventable. Research shows that adopting a healthy lifestyle can cut the risk by up to 60%. Key steps include:

• Maintaining a healthy weight through balanced nutrition
• Engaging in regular physical activity: at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days
• Choosing whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins over processed and sugary foods
• Avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol intake
• Getting regular checkups to detect early glucose abnormalities

What Are The Complications of Diabetes ?

If not well controlled, diabetes can gradually damage many organs in the body. High blood sugar over time affects the small and large blood vessels, nerves, and vital. 

• Eye disease (retinopathy): Can lead to vision loss or blindness.
• Kidney disease (nephropathy): Diabetes is a leading cause of chronic kidney disease and kidney failure.
• Nerve damage (neuropathy): Causes pain, numbness, and increases the risk of foot ulcers and amputations.
• Cardiovascular disease: People with diabetes are 2 to 4 times more likely to develop heart attacks, strokes, and peripheral artery disease.
• Heart Failure: One of the most serious complications is heart failure. High glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol all strain the heart over time. 

Treatment: Personalized and Evolving

Diabetes management has come a long way. Treatment today is individualized, meaning it’s tailored to each person’s specific needs, health goals, and associated conditions.

• Lifestyle modifications remain the cornerstone of care.
• Medications such as oral tablets or injectable therapies are chosen based on blood sugar levels, weight, cardiovascular health, and kidney function. 
• Continuous glucose monitoring with sensors and newer medications like GLP-1 receptor agonists or SGLT2 inhibitors are helping people achieve better control and reduce complications.

With the right approach, people with diabetes can live healthy, active, and fulfilling lives.

Takeaway

Diabetes is common — but it’s not inevitable, and it’s definitely manageable. Awareness, prevention, and early detection make all the difference to avoid complications. 

A healthy lifestyle today can prevent diabetes tomorrow.