World Diabetes Day is an annual campaign observed on November 14th to raise awareness about diabetes, its prevention, and the importance of proper management. This global initiative was launched in 1991 by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and the World Health Organization (WHO) in response to the alarming rise in diabetes cases worldwide.
The day serves as a platform to educate the public about the impact of diabetes, promote healthy lifestyle choices, and advocate for improved access to quality healthcare for those affected by this chronic condition. It also aims to foster a supportive environment for individuals living with diabetes and their families.
What is Diabetes
Diabetes is a chronic, metabolic disease characterized by elevated levels of blood glucose (or blood sugar), which leads over time to serious damage to the heart, blood vessels, eyes, kidneys and nerves. The most common is type 2 diabetes, usually in adults, which occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t make enough insulin.
Improperly regulated glucose levels can lead to serious health issues if not treated promptly; therefore, it’s imperative to prioritize managing them for optimal well-being and quality of life.
The symptoms of diabetes can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. However, some common signs and symptoms to watch out for include:
- Increased Thirst and Frequent Urination: When blood sugar levels are high, the body tries to eliminate excess glucose through frequent urination, leading to increased thirst.
- Hunger and Fatigue: Insulin resistance or lack of insulin can prevent cells from effectively utilizing glucose for energy, resulting in constant hunger and feelings of fatigue or weakness.
- Blurred Vision: High blood sugar levels can cause the lens of the eye to swell, leading to temporary blurred vision.
- Slow-healing Wounds: Elevated blood sugar can impair the body’s ability to heal cuts, bruises, or sores.
- Tingling or Numbness in Hands or Feet: High blood sugar can damage nerves, causing tingling, numbness, or pain in the extremities.
- Unexplained Weight Loss: In type 1 diabetes, the body may start breaking down muscle and fat for energy, leading to unintentional weight loss.
Do all medical aid schemes cover diabetes?
Diabetes, whether type 1 or type 2, is considered a chronic condition. All medical aids are required by law to cover the cost of treatment and care relating to the disease. These mandatory benefits are known as Prescribed Minimum Benefits (PMBs) and have to be covered by medical aid scheme funds rather than paid from members’ day-to-day benefits.
However, it is important to note that the level of coverage may vary depending on the specific medical aid plan and its benefits structure. While all schemes must cover PMBs, some may offer additional benefits or specialized programs for diabetes management beyond the minimum requirements.
For example, comprehensive medical aid plans often provide more extensive coverage, including unlimited dialysis and organ transplant benefits, which can be crucial for individuals with diabetes-related complications. On the other hand, entry-level or more affordable plans may only cover PMBs for chronic renal dialysis and organ transplants.
Therefore, it is important to have a medical aid broker like Glopin Healthcare Consultants to guide you when making important decisions about your healthcare coverage. It is important to note that the level of coverage may vary depending on the specific medical aid plan and its benefits structure.
