The Age of Diabetes Onset Has Fallen in Turkey

World Health Organization (WHO) and International Diabetes Federation (IDF) observe 14 November as World Diabetes Day to commemorate the birth year of Frederick Banting, who discovered insulin in 1921 and made treatment possible for millions of diabetes patients. While approximately 463 million people with diabetes live worldwide, this number is expected to reach 700 million by 2045. WHO states that diabetes will be the seventh leading cause of death by 2030. According to results from the Turkey Diabetes, Hypertension, Obesity and Endocrinological Diseases Prevalence Study-II (TURDEP-II) conducted in Turkey, diabetes prevalence in the Turkish adult population has reached 13.7%. The results show that from the 40-44 age group onwards, at least 10% of the population has diabetes, and these figures indicate that diabetes in Turkey started approximately 5 years earlier compared to 1998. Özlem Karagöl, Head of First Aid and Emergency Medicine Programme at Altınbaş Üniversitesi, emphasizes the importance of healthy nutrition and regular medical check-ups in diabetes treatment, saying, "We can think of diabetes treatment as steps toward healthy living and transform it into an opportunity for healthy living."

"Pay attention to early signs"

Sharing recommendations for living with and treating diabetes, Özlem Karagöl emphasizes that diabetes, a genetically inherited disease, can be prevented through correct methods and lifestyle changes. Karagöl states, "Signs such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, dry mouth and delayed wound healing on the skin can indicate diabetes. Early detection of these signs and implementation of lifestyle changes through necessary precautions are important."

"Regular foot care against diabetic foot risk"

Stating that foot care is very important in diabetes patients, Özlem Karagöl warns that diabetic foot development can lead to limb loss and lists the rules to be observed in foot care as follows:

• -Feet should be checked daily with the aid of a mirror, including between toes and the sole -Feet should be washed daily and dried with a soft towel. -The temperature of foot washing water should be measured. Because loss of sensation in the feet can cause severe burns. -Feet should not be exposed to chemicals like soap for prolonged periods. This causes cracking and increases infection risk. -Cream can be used on dry skin after bathing, but should not be applied between toes. -Pedicure should not be performed in diabetic patients as it is very risky. If pedicure is to be done, it must be done by an experienced person using the patient's own tools. -Nails should be cut bluntly to avoid ingrown nails, and rough edges should be smoothed with a file. If ingrown nail problems exist, cutting should be done by a professional. -Cotton socks must always be worn, even at home. Socks should not be too tight and must be seamless. Seams can cause chronic contact wounds on feet over time. -Shoes should be checked inside before wearing. Small objects inside shoes or sole separation can damage the skin. The inside of shoes should be cleaned with a warm cloth and dried thoroughly.

"Drink plenty of water"

Noting that insufficient fluid intake can lead to elevated blood sugar and kidney problems, Öğr. Gör. Özlem Karagöl states, "Especially during summer months, increasing water consumption is very important for diabetics. In diabetes patients, toenails must be cut slightly long and straight. Diabetic patients should be careful to buy new shoes one size larger than normal. If feet accumulate moisture for any reason, shoes must be reviewed."

"Prevent skin dryness against cracking and irritation"

Warning that cracks and openings in the skin of diabetes patients can allow dirt and bacteria that cause infections to enter, Karagöl states, "Considering that diabetic patients have relatively weak immune systems, the likelihood of infection increases significantly. For this reason, protecting your skin and preventing skin dryness that can lead to cracking and irritation is important."

"Pay attention to water temperature when showering and washing hands"

Reminding that hot water can dry the skin, Özlem Karagöl notes that dry skin is more prone to cracking and irritation, and emphasizes that showers should be taken with lukewarm water and if there are nerve damage or poor circulation problems, it must be ensured the water is not too hot before contact. Karagöl states that when thick socks are worn to keep feet warm in cold weather, shoes should not be tight, "The shoes you wear should fit the foot snugly and be made of soft leather or fabric with thick soles. Also, do not bring your cold feet near heaters such as stoves or radiators. Between-toe slippers can cause foot wounds in diabetics. Walking barefoot should be avoided."

"Pay attention to timing when exercising"

Noting that maintaining target blood sugar is important if skin dryness or cracking occurs, Öğr. Gör. Özlem Karagöl states, "If blood sugar rises, cuts, wounds and open sores may take a long time to heal. Keeping your blood sugar in the target range is the most important factor in preventing infections and more serious problems." Emphasizing that regular exercise and sports must be part of the life of diabetes patients, Karagöl states, "The reason is that regular exercise contributes to weight loss and eliminates insulin resistance. 40-50 minute walks during the day are the most recommended form of exercise. However, evening hours should be preferred, and exposure to direct sunlight should be strictly avoided."