With over half a billion individuals worldwide living with diabetes, the urgency to address this escalating health crisis is paramount. Projections suggest that by 2050, the number of people affected will soar to a staggering 1.3 billion, primarily driven by the rise in type 2 diabetes (T2D), which constitutes 96% of cases globally.

“The rapid rate at which diabetes is growing is not only alarming but also challenging for every health system in the world, especially given how the disease also increases the risk for ischemic heart disease and stroke,” – Dr. Liane Ong, Lead Author and Lead Research Scientist, Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) at the University of Washington’s School of Medicine.

Canada is not exempt from diabetes, with approximately 3.7 million diagnosed cases, excluding gestational diabetes, affecting 9.4% of the population. Additionally, over 6% of adults in Canada live with prediabetes, predisposing them to T2D.

Monitoring blood sugar levels is crucial for effective diabetes management, especially for those with type 1 diabetes or on insulin therapy. Various factors, including carbohydrate intake, medication adherence, physical activity, and stress, can influence blood sugar levels.

For individuals monitoring blood sugar at home, two main methods are widely used: glucose meters with finger sticks and Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs). These tools provide valuable insights into blood sugar fluctuations, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health and treatment.

As the prevalence of diabetes continues to rise globally, raising awareness about risk factors, regular screenings, and effective management strategies is imperative. By prioritizing preventive measures, promoting healthy lifestyles, and leveraging innovative technologies for monitoring and managing blood sugar, we can collectively combat the diabetes epidemic and improve public health outcomes worldwide.

Additional read: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/17956-blood-sugar-monitoring