In recent years, diabetes has become increasingly common worldwide. According to the World Health Organization, the number of people living with diabetes has risen dramatically over the past few decades, making it one of the most pressing global health challenges. In Singapore alone, about 1 in 3 Singaporeans is at risk of developing diabetes in their lifetime (MOH Singapore).
In this article, we’ll explore what diabetes mellitus really is, the different types, what causes it, common symptoms to look out for, how it affects the body, and most importantly, how it can be managed or prevented. Whether you’re newly diagnosed, caring for someone with diabetes, or simply want to understand the condition better, this guide is here to help.
Diabetes mellitus, commonly referred to as diabetes, is a metabolic disorder that causes high levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood. It happens when your body doesn’t produce enough insulin or becomes resistant to insulin, a hormone that helps move glucose from the bloodstream into your cells for energy. Without enough insulin, sugar builds up in the blood, which over time can damage organs and tissues.
There are two main problems in diabetes mellitus:
Some people may also experience a temporary form of diabetes during pregnancy, known as gestational diabetes.
Diabetes is becoming more widespread globally due to changing lifestyles and diets. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that the number of adults living with diabetes has more than doubled from about 200 million in 1980 to over 830 million by 2022. In 2021 alone, diabetes and related kidney disease caused over 2.1 million deaths, and high blood sugar contributed to approximately 11% of cardiovascular deaths. Alarmingly, diabetes ranks among the top 10 global causes of death, with mortality rising sharply, up 70% from 2000 to 2019.
In Singapore, the situation is serious:
The good news is that diabetes is manageable and preventable. With early detection, lifestyle changes, and proper care, many people live full and healthy lives with diabetes.
There are several types of diabetes mellitus, each with different causes, characteristics, and treatment approaches. However, the three most recognized types are:
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. As a result, the body produces little to no insulin. This type accounts for about 5–10% of all diabetes cases.
Type 2 diabetes is the most common form, accounting for around 90–95% of all diabetes cases. It occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough of it. In Singapore, 1 in 9 people aged 18 to 69 is living with type 2 diabetes.
This type occurs during pregnancy when hormones interfere with insulin use, causing high blood sugar levels.
There are also rarer forms such as monogenic diabetes and secondary diabetes (caused by certain diseases or medications), but these are much less common.
The causes of diabetes mellitus depend on the type of diabetes. However, all forms involve problems related to the hormone insulin, which helps your body regulate blood sugar levels.
Type 1 diabetes is primarily caused by an autoimmune reaction, where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas.
Type 1 diabetes is not caused by lifestyle or diet and cannot be prevented. The exact cause is unknown, but contributing factors may include:
Type 2 diabetes is mainly linked to insulin resistance, where the body doesn’t respond properly to insulin and sugar builds up in the blood. Type 2 diabetes often develops gradually, which is why it can go unnoticed for years.
Common risk factors include:
Gestational diabetes is caused by hormonal changes during pregnancy that make cells more resistant to insulin. It’s more likely to occur in women who:
Recognizing the symptoms of diabetes early can help with prompt diagnosis and treatment, potentially preventing serious complications. While symptoms may vary depending on the type and severity of diabetes, some common signs affect most people living with the condition.
Common Symptoms of Diabetes Mellitus
These symptoms occur because the body cannot effectively use or produce insulin, leading to high blood sugar levels.
Symptoms of Type 1 Diabetes: Type 1 diabetes often appears in childhood or adolescence but can develop at any age. Symptoms tend to develop quickly, often over a few weeks. They may include:
Symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes: Often develop slowly, making it harder to detect in the early stages. Many people have it for years without knowing. Often, it’s discovered through routine blood tests.
Symptoms of Gestational Diabetes: Gestational diabetes usually has no noticeable symptoms, which is why screening during pregnancy is essential. Some women may experience:
However, these are also common during normal pregnancy, so testing is the best way to detect gestational diabetes.
If you notice any of these symptoms, especially if they persist or worsen, it’s important to speak with a healthcare professional. You can easily consult a doctor from home through the MaNaDr App’s teleconsultation service, early detection makes all the difference.
Being diagnosed with diabetes mellitus can feel overwhelming, but with the right management and support, it’s entirely possible to live a long, healthy life. However, uncontrolled or poorly managed diabetes can lead to serious health complications and in some cases, even be life-threatening.
When diabetes is not properly managed, high blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia) can damage various organs and systems in the body over time. This includes:
These complications can be avoided or delayed with consistent blood sugar control and healthy lifestyle habits.
Diabetes itself is not an immediate death sentence, but it can become life-threatening when complications develop due to poor control or delayed treatment.
Many of these deaths are preventable with early diagnosis, education, and long-term care.
Managing diabetes mellitus requires a combination of healthy lifestyle choices, regular monitoring, and sometimes medication. With the right approach, people living with diabetes can prevent or delay complications and maintain a good quality of life.
Healthy Eating: Consider working with a dietitian to create a personalized meal plan.
Regular Physical Activity
Medications & Insulin: Never self-adjust your medication without medical advice.
Monitor Blood Sugar Levels: Checking your blood sugar regularly helps track your progress and identify patterns. Some may use continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) or at-home testing kits.
Avoid Smoking & Limit Alcohol: Both smoking and excessive drinking can worsen diabetes and increase your risk of complications.
You should speak with a doctor if:
You don’t always need to go to the clinic, the MaNaDr App lets you book teleconsultations with certified doctors for fast and convenient diabetes care. Whether you need medication advice, a second opinion, or just someone to check in with, help is just a tap away.
Diabetes mellitus is a serious but manageable condition. Understanding its types, causes, and symptoms empowers you to take control of your health. Early detection and consistent management are key to preventing complications and living well with diabetes. Whether you’re managing the disease or looking to prevent it, making healthy lifestyle choices and seeking timely medical advice can make all the difference.
