Type 2 diabetes is often referred to as the "silent disease," affecting a significant portion of the global population.
Many individuals with this condition may remain unaware of it, as it typically manifests without noticeable symptoms. Instead, it is commonly detected incidentally during routine blood tests. Unlike type 1 diabetes, which is typically identified in childhood, type 2 diabetes tends to develop discreetly, often emerging in individuals aged 40 and above. On average, there is a time span of 5 to 10 years between the onset of elevated blood sugar levels and an official diagnosis.
Due to its asymptomatic nature, it is estimated that a considerable number of adults, ranging from 20 to 30 percent, live with undiagnosed type 2 diabetes. The causes of this condition are linked to poor dietary habits and, in some cases, a hereditary predisposition.
To proactively guard against this silent ailment, adopting a regimen of regular exercise and undergoing routine blood tests is essential. This preventative approach is crucial as type 2 diabetes has been associated with complications such as atherosclerosis, potentially leading to heart problems, retinal diseases, kidney failure, and other serious health issues.