Diabetes

Reuel S. Amdur

Connexions Resource Centre held an information session on diabetes at the Wakefield Community Centre on October 16.  The event was timely, as the Senate had just approved the Pharmacare Act, which is now law. The act provides universal coverage for drugs and supplies for birth control and diabetes.  The federal government must now negotiate with the provincial and territorial governments on implementation.  For diabetes this legislation opens the door for payment for test strips, lancets (small needles), and glucose meters, supplies that can be very expensive.  The ball is now in Quebec’s court to take advantage of the law.  The federal government currently in power plans to extend drug coverage in the future.

Roland Blondin, vice-president of Diabète Outaouais, was the speaker.  He spelled out the nature of diabetes and its care and prevention.  This report covers his account.

In diabetes, the body makes little or no insulin, and the body cannot use it.  Insulin regulates blood sugar levels, turning food into energy.  There are three types of diabetes, one, two, and gestational.  All pregnant women should be tested for gestational diabetes.  Diabetes 1 occurs in children and young adults whose bodies produce little or no insulin.  This condition is genetic and cannot be prevented.  Treatment is much the same as in type 2.

Type 2 diabetes is most commonly found in people 40 and over.  It may be prevented.  Risk factors include age, family history of the condition, ethnicity, high blood pressure or cholesterol, overweight, and physical inactivity.  People of non-European origins are at greater risk—Black, Asian, Indigenous, Latino, or Pacific Islanders. 

We can change some of the risk factors for type 2 diabetes.  We can exercise, control our weight, eat healthily, and treat high blood pressure and cholesterol.  We can stop smoking and care for our feet, cleaning and drying between toes. 

There are signs of diabetes of which we should be aware: constant thirst, frequent urination, weight change, tiredness, blurred vision, frequent or recurring infections, cuts or bruisers that do not heal, tingling or numbness in hands or feet, impotence.  Check feet nightly for problems. 

If diabetes is not prevented or adequately controlled, long term consequences can be heart attack, stroke, kidney problems, visual impairment and blindness, nerve problems, amputations, and early death. 

Meals are important in diabetes prevention and control.  Follow the Canada Food Guide.  On a dinner plate, half should be for two or more vegetables, a fourth for grains and legumes, and a fourth for lean meat and substitutes such as beans and lentils, with milk or water to drink and fruit for dessert.  Junk snacks high in fat and sugar are discouraged.  Diabète Outaouais offers cooking classes in French, but interpretation in English is available. 

In order to control and prevent diabetes, 150 minutes of weekly exercise is recommended.  That  includes walking.  We need to avoid stress, as it leads to fluctuation in blood sugar level.  For help in dealing with diabetes, consult a nurse or dietician.  Contact Diabète Outaouais for information or to learn how to participate in the organization.  819-770-0442.