A Growing Health Crisis in Kathmandu: Diabetes on the Rise
In a recent eye-opening report, it was revealed that a staggering 22% of Kathmandu residents aged 30 and above are living with high blood sugar levels, a condition commonly known as diabetes. This figure is almost three times the national average, and it's a statistic that has health experts and doctors deeply concerned.
The preliminary findings of a random blood sugar test conducted by the Kathmandu Metropolitan City paint a worrying picture. Out of the 19,660 individuals tested, a significant portion, 19.5%, were either newly diagnosed with diabetes or already living with the condition. Furthermore, an additional 2.4% were found to have high blood sugar levels but were not taking any medication, highlighting a potential lack of awareness or access to proper healthcare.
Dr. Jyoti Bhattarai, a senior endocrinologist, emphasizes the alarming nature of this rise in diabetes cases. "The problem has been escalating rapidly in recent years, affecting people of all ages. What's particularly concerning is the increasing number of young people being affected, many of whom are unaware of their condition."
Diabetes is a non-communicable disease, meaning it is not contagious, but it develops when blood sugar levels are consistently high. This can occur due to various reasons, such as the pancreas not producing enough insulin or the body's cells becoming resistant to insulin. The World Health Organization recognizes diabetes as a global health issue, impacting people across all life stages.
Health officials in Kathmandu are sounding the alarm based on the preliminary results of a health screening conducted on over 26,000 individuals aged 30 and above. The screening, which took place at various locations across the metropolis, including urban health centers, assessed blood pressure, diabetes, behavioral risk factors like smoking and alcohol intake, and renal function.
Dr. Dibas Neupane, an official at the Health Department, acknowledges the need for further analysis but states, "The preliminary results indicate alarming rates of diabetes and other non-communicable diseases among Kathmandu residents."
In addition to the well-known types of diabetes, Type 1 and Type 2, experts have also identified a new type, known as Type 5 or midpoint diabetes, which is related to chronic undernutrition. This condition is characterized by insulin deficiency in individuals who appear lean and thin.
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease where the body's immune system attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, leading to insufficient insulin production. Type 2 diabetes, on the other hand, is more common and occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or the pancreas fails to produce enough insulin.
Doctors emphasize that diabetes can affect people of all ages and increases the risk of damage to vital organs such as the kidneys, nerves, heart, and eyes. The main culprits behind this rise in diabetes cases are changes in dietary patterns, sedentary lifestyles, and increasing stress levels.
Dr. Dipak Malla, a senior endocrinologist at Bir Hospital, highlights the importance of early intervention. "Most patients seek treatment only when complications arise, which is often too late. Many people believe that diabetes is an older person's disease, but the number of young people suffering from it has been steadily increasing."
Lack of physical activity, obesity, and an unhealthy diet are major contributors to the rise in diabetes cases among children and young people. Dr. Malla emphasizes the need for a lifestyle change, stating, "Anyone can develop non-communicable diseases and diabetes. Those who consume excessive processed foods, lead sedentary lives, and are obese are at a higher risk. These individuals must adopt healthier eating habits and engage in regular physical exercise. Early identification and intervention can prevent serious complications."
Experts recommend launching awareness campaigns to educate the public about non-communicable diseases, the importance of an active lifestyle, and healthy eating habits. Non-communicable diseases, including hypertension, diabetes, renal disease, liver problems, heart problems, and cervical cancer, have become leading causes of death worldwide, accounting for 73% of total deaths, according to the Global Burden of Disease 2021 study.
This growing health crisis in Kathmandu highlights the urgent need for action and awareness to tackle the rising prevalence of diabetes and other non-communicable diseases.
