Diabetes management has come a long way, with treatment options now as varied as they are effective. No longer limited to just insulin shots, today’s diabetes care offers a mix of traditional therapies and innovative approaches that cater to individual needs and lifestyles.
World Diabetes Day, celebrated on 14 November, aims to raise awareness about diabetes and promote collective actions for better prevention, diagnosis, and management. According to the World Health Organisation, the theme for this year is “Breaking Barriers, Bridging Gaps,” which emphasises access to “Equitable, comprehensive, affordable, and quality care.”
Let’s discover the latest in diabetes treatments, and find out how each option can help you or your loved ones live a fuller, healthier life with diabetes. The Diabetes UK publication mentions that insulin therapy is essential for those with type 1 and type 2 diabetes, and is typically injected under the skin.
It is further explained that inhaled insulin is also available, but is not commonly used due to stomach destruction. The above source also states that newer forms of insulin are being tested. “An insulin pen, which contains a cartridge that holds the insulin, is a convenient way for many people to carry and use insulin, especially for people who take several injections a day outside the home.”
Furthermore, it is claimed that “The pump mimics the way the body normally produces insulin. Pump therapy is considered in some people who require more than three injections per day. For some people, the pump offers an added degree of control, whereas others find wearing the pump inconvenient or develop sores at the cannula insertion site.”
Type 2 diabetes can be managed with oral medicines, such as metformin, which helps reduce glucose production and improve insulin use, explains the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. It is also said to help lose weight. “Other oral medicines act in different ways to lower blood glucose levels. Combining two or three kinds of diabetes medicines can lower blood glucose levels better than taking just one medicine.”
Also see: Swap to these diabetes-friendly foods
