Diabetes Awareness Week

It's Diabetes Awareness Week from the 9th - 15th June. I'm asking you to get up, get out, and get moving in any way you see fit to help combat the risk of diabetes. Once you've done your activity, send the evidence to me, along with a photograph for the report and you will achieve the mission. The deadline is 23:59 on the 15th June.

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how the body uses blood sugar (glucose). There are several types, with the most common being type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, usually diagnosed in children or young adults, and requires lifelong insulin treatment. Type 2 diabetes, more common in adults but increasingly seen in younger people, occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn't produce enough—often linked to lifestyle factors like poor diet and inactivity. Gestational diabetes develops during pregnancy due to hormonal changes and usually resolves after birth, though it raises the risk of type 2 diabetes later. Prediabetes is a warning stage where blood sugar levels are elevated but not yet high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes. With early detection and healthy lifestyle changes, many forms of diabetes can be managed or even prevented.

Diabetes Awareness Week is a time to shine a spotlight on the impact of diabetes and the importance of early detection, healthy habits, and support for those affected. One of the most powerful ways to prevent or manage diabetes is through regular physical activity. Even a simple daily walk and dancing to your favorite song can make a meaningful difference. This week is a great reminder to get up, move your body, and take small steps toward better health - because every step counts.

I've included lists below of some of the symptoms associated with diabetes. Its pretty mind-blowing how much of an impact diabetes can have. If you are concerned, doctors can test quite simply for diabetes.

Common Symptoms in Diabetes (Type 1 & Type 2)

Frequent urination (polyuria); Excessive thirst (polydipsia); Increased hunger (polyphagia); Unexplained weight loss (more common in type 1); Fatigue or weakness; Blurred vision; Slow-healing wounds or sores; Frequent infections (e.g., skin, gum, or urinary tract infections); Dry mouth; Dry, itchy skin; Tingling, pain, or numbness in hands or feet (neuropathy); Irritability or mood changes; Headaches; Sweet-smelling breath (in cases of diabetic ketoacidosis); Nausea or vomiting (especially in type 1 or with complications); Dark patches of skin (acanthosis nigricans—usually on the neck or armpits, more common in type 2); Erectile dysfunction; Vaginal dryness or yeast infections; Decreased libido; Vision changes or sudden vision loss (in advanced cases); Foot problems (e.g., pain, infections, ulcers); Shortness of breath (in severe cases like ketoacidosis or heart complications).

Symptoms More Specific to Type 1 Diabetes

Rapid and unintentional weight loss; Extreme fatigue; Fruity breath smell; Confusion or changes in mental status; Breathlessness; Nausea and vomiting; Stomach pain; Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) signs.

Symptoms More Common in Type 2 Diabetes

(often gradual and subtle)

Mild or absent symptoms at first; Weight gain or difficulty losing weight; Recurring infections; Tingling or numbness in extremities; Slow wound healing; Skin conditions like fungal infections or darkened areas (acanthosis nigricans).

Symptoms of Prediabetes

(Most people have no obvious symptoms, but some may notice early signs)

Mild fatigue; Mild blurred vision; Darkened skin patches (acanthosis nigricans); Increased thirst or urination (rare, but possible); Weight gain, especially around the abdomen; Trouble concentrating or “brain fog”; Mild nerve symptoms (tingling or numbness) in some cases.

Complications That May Develop Over Time (Chronic Symptoms of Uncontrolled Diabetes)

Retinopathy – vision loss; Nephropathy – kidney damage, protein in urine; Neuropathy – nerve pain, burning, tingling; Heart disease – chest pain, shortness of breath; Stroke; Foot ulcers, infections, or even amputations; Gum disease and dental issues; Hearing impairment; Cognitive decline or Alzheimer’s risk increase; Gastroparesis – delayed stomach emptying.