Diabetes mellitus

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Rue Gabrielle-Perret-Gentil 4
1205 Geneva
Switzerland

Diabetes mellitusDiabetes is characterized by an elevated blood glucose level (fasting glucose > 7mmol/l, 11.1 mmol/l after a meal). A high blood glucose level damages artery walls. As a consequence, people with diabetes have a 2 to 4 times increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease.

Over the long term, diabetes can lead to complications in the brain, heart, eyes, kidneys and nerves. People with diabetes also have a tendency to develop high blood pressure and problems with cholesterol levels, all of which further increases the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Diabetes is considered a major risk factor. If you have diabetes, good control of blood sugar levels can decrease the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Here are five key points for good diabetes management:

  • Follow dietary recommendations for diabetics;
  • Maintain physical activity;
  • Keep a healthy weight
  • Manage your stress levels;
  • Take your medication;
  • Control your blood glucose levels (glycated or a1c haemoglobin<6.5%).

If there is diabetes in your family, if you are overweight or if you don’t do daily physical activity, you may develop diabetes.

 

Download the practical health advice pamphlet I want to improve my glucose levels

Last update : 10/07/2024