Approximately two million Canadians have diabetes. It is a lifelong disease that prevents your body from either producing the right amount of insulin or using what it does produce properly.

There are two different types of diabetes, Type 1 and Type 2. In Type 1 (insulin-dependent) diabetes, the pancreas makes little or no insulin. Type 1 diabetes is less common than Type 2 diabetes and accounts for about five to ten percent of diabetes cases. It typically develops during childhood or young adulthood. Although formerly known as "juvenile diabetes," the disorder can appear at any age. In Type 2 (non-insulin-dependent) diabetes, the pancreas makes insulin but the body does not respond to it properly. Type 2 diabetes most often occurs in overweight or obese adults after the age of 30, but may also develop in children.
Type 2 diabetes is on the rise in Canada and rates are expected to continue increasing for several reasons.

The increasing prevalence of obesity among Canadians is a major contributor to the rise in Type 2 diabetes. Statistics Canada reports that two out of every three adults in Canada are overweight or obese and the proportion of obese children has nearly tripled in the last 25 years. Interestingly, Type 2 diabetes can be prevented by increasing physical activity and making healthy nutritional choices.

Women with diabetes:

develop heart disease more often than other women, and their heart disease is more severe

women under age 50 with diabetes are more vulnerable to heart attacks and strokes than those without diabetes because the disease seems to cancel the protective effects of estrogen on a woman's heart prior to menopause

are also at even greater risk for developing heart disease after menopause

have lower levels of high-density lipoproteins (HDL) cholesterol (the good cholesterol) and higher levels of triglycerides, or fats, in the blood

have more urinary tract infections and vaginal yeast infections. The fungi and bacteria that cause these infections thrive in a high-sugar environment and the body's immune system can't fight them as effectively when blood glucose levels are too high

often have irregular menstrual periods, especially if their blood sugar isn't well controlled. Blood sugar levels may rise and insulin needs may increase before a woman's period, and fall once it begins

can have adverse reactions to hormonal birth control methods. Contraceptives containing hormones (such as birth control pills), IUDs that contain progesterone, and long-lasting progestin implants and injections may alter blood glucose levels.

The bottom line? Although diabetes is a chronic and potentially life-threatening condition, it can be effectively controlled and managed once it has been accurately diagnosed. Educate yourself on the condition and follow these guidelines: incorporate regular physical activity into your lifestyle to help lower blood glucose levels, reduce stress and maintain a healthy weight, don’t smoke, keep your cholesterol and other blood fats in your target range, keep your blood pressure close to target and check your blood glucose levels regularly.

Link: Canadian Diabetes Association