Diabetes is a chronic condition that can affect individuals across all life stages, from childhood through older adulthood. If left untreated or poorly managed, diabetes can lead to severe, life-threatening health complications affecting major organs and systems in the body.
The potential consequences of uncontrolled high blood sugar are serious. These include damage to the small blood vessels in the eyes, which can result in blindness.
Damage to the blood vessels and nerves can affect the extremities, potentially leading to slow-healing sores, infections, and ultimately, the need for lower limb amputation.
Furthermore, diabetes significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events. Untreated diabetes is a major risk factor for developing a Heart Attack and a Stroke.
It can also severely damage the kidneys, leading to Kidney Failure, a condition that often requires dialysis or a transplant.
World Diabetes Day is observed annually on November 14 to raise awareness about this critical global health issue. The theme for 2025 emphasises the impact of "Diabetes across life stages."
