Diabetes

Diabetes is a chronic condition that stems from the body's inability to sufficiently produce and/or properly use insulin which the body needs to use sugar as an energy source. Diabetes can lead to serious complications and premature death but those who have diabetes can take steps to control the disease and lower the risk of complications.

Types of diabetes

Risk Factors

Several factors contribute to a person's risk of developing diabetes. Scientists do not know exactly what causes type 1 diabetes, but they believe that both genetic factors and exposure to viruses are involved.

Risk factors that contribute to developing type 2 diabetes include:

• being overweight or obese;
• pre-diabetes;
• advanced age;
• physical inactivity;
• having high blood pressure and/or high cholesterol;
• having a family history of diabetes;
• belonging to certain high-risk ethnic populations (e.g. Aboriginal, African, Hispanic, Asian);
• having a history of gestational diabetes; and
• having other conditions which may include vascular disease, polycycstic ovary syndrome, acanthosis nigricans and schizophrenia

Reducing the risk of diabetes

Signs and symptoms of type 2 diabetes

Early diagnosis of diabetes is extremely important. The earlier diabetes is diagnosed, the sooner a person can take steps to manage it well and prevent or delay any complications.

Anyone who has any of these signs and symptoms should visit a healthcare provider. The healthcare provider will decide if a test that will diagnose diabetes is warranted. Symptoms can include:

• unusual thirst;
• frequent urination;
• weight change (gain or loss);
• extreme fatigue or lack of energy;
• blurred vision;
• frequent or recurring infections;
• cuts and bruises that are slow to heal;
• tingling or numbness in the hands or feet; and
• trouble getting or maintaining an erection.

In some cases, a person can have diabetes but not have any signs and symptoms. Regular check-ups with a health care provider are an important factor in preventing or managing diabetes.

Diagnosing diabetes

Managing Diabetes

Living with diabetes

• How can physical activity help people with type 2 diabetes?
• What kinds of programs and services are available for people with diabetes?
• Can I get help to pay for my diabetes medications and supplies?
• Who can help answer my questions about sugar and my meal plan?

Complications of diabetes

Facts & Figures

• The face of diabetes in Canada
• The cost of diabetes
• Chronic Disease Infobase
• Economic Burden of Illness

Knowledge Development and Exchange

• Diabetes Publications
• Diabetes Clinical Practice Guidelines
• Diabetes Science and Research
• Diabetes Terms to Know
• Canadian Best Practices Portal
• Chronic Diseases in Canada (CDIC)

Initiatives, Strategies, Systems and Programs

• Integrated Strategy on Healthy Living and Chronic Disease
• Canadian Diabetes Strategy
• National Diabetes Surveillance System
• Canadian Heart Health Strategy
  • Canadian Heart Health Strategy and Action Plan
• Aboriginal Diabetes Initiative
• Diabetes Policy Review
  • Diabetes Policy Review - Report of the Expert Panel

Links

Diabetes Links