<p>A team of expert doctors and nutritionists at the Aga Khan University Hospital conducted a Facebook Live session where they answered questions on the risk factors that can lead to Diabetes, its screening and how it can be controlled. The panelists included:
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</div><div>Dr. Sarah Nadeem – Assistant Professor & Consultant Endocrinologist </div><div>Ms. Tooba Ali – Clinical Dietician</div><div>Dr. Tabinda Ashfaq – Assistant Professor & Consultant Family Physician</div><div>Dr. Najmul Islam - Professor Medicine & Consultant Endocrinologist </div><div>Dr. Aisha Sheikh - Consultant Endocrinologist </div><div>Ms. Farzana Rafiq – Diabetes Nurse Educator </div><div>
</div><div>Diabetes is very prevalent in Pakistan, where 20-26% of the population is affected. There is a possibility of this number being more as many people might even have it and not know it, due to not being diagnosed. If diabetes is treated effectively, then any complications related to it can be limited.</div><div>
</div><div>Diabetes can affect any person at any age and it is important to know how to reduce the risk of having it. Diabetes is largely asymptomatic, which means that it is a condition that does not produce or show symptoms in the person who might have it. Hence, there may be no signs or indications for those affected.</div><div>
</div><div>Screening is done based on risk factors; i.e. anyone whose age is above 45 years, has a family history of diabetes, has an inactive lifestyle and is overweight must get screened regularly. Late diagnosis can be problematic as the early years of diabetes is important to control any further complications.</div><div>
</div><div>If anyone is thinks they are at risk as per the above-mentioned factors, they should get Fasting Blood Sugar Test done yearly to get diagnosed as early as possible. The Aga Khan University Hospital is offering a special screening package for diabetes at its <a href="/pakistan/patients-families/health-packages/Pages/clinical-laboratories-packages.aspx">Clinical Laboratories</a> around Pakistan until end of November for 20% off.</div><div>
</div><div>Children are also at risk of getting diabetes if both the parents have it. The best way for children from being affected is to adapt a healthy lifestyle. Parents should act as role models and promote healthy eating and living and keep their children’s weight in control by avoiding physical inactivity, processed foods, etc. The biggest prevention is to control weight. Visit the doctor/pediatrician regularly (once every year) so it can be tracked and there can be timely intervention.</div><div>
</div><div><a href="/pakistan/diseases-and-conditions/Pages/gestation-diabetes.aspx">Gestational diabetes</a> is a condition in which a woman develop high blood sugar levels during pregnancy. This occurs due to hormonal changes. If an exceeded amount of sugar gets transferred to baby, it can prove to be dangerous. If sugar is not controlled then the baby can gain excessive weight and there can be chances of pre-mature delivery, jaundice and breathing problems in the baby. It is strongly advised to manage levels throughout pregnancy to stay safe from complications.</div><div>
</div><div>For diabetic patients, dietary modification is necessary. It is advised for patients to not have sugar/gur, refined flour and juices. Whole wheat and high fiber foods are desirable, along with fruits and vegetables. Patients should have good water intake and also have low-fat milk and yoghurt with equal intake of protein and fats. If anyone is at risk of getting diabetes, it is recommended to have a yearly screening done. </div><div>
</div><div>The Aga Khan University Hospital offers generous <a href="/pakistan/patients-families/welfare-zakat-assistance/Pages/default.aspx">welfare and zakat</a> to patients with a financial need.</div>
