THE incidence of Type 2 diabetes has been mounting to become the fifth cause of mortality in the country, medical experts said.
Dr. Gian Tenorio, medical head of Sanofi Philippines, noted that fear and misinformation were largely the reason why diabetes had remained unchecked among Filipinos.
“Effective diabetes care begins with the right information. Your doctor is the best source for medical advice, as it is personalized based on your condition,” Tenorio stressed.
He added that lack of knowledge on the disease prompted the patients to procrastinate or avoid treatment, although effective treatment were readily available.
He also pointed out that common misconceptions such as the belief that insulin is a last resort or a sign of failure discourage patients from taking the right moves to address their health problem.
Health officials projected that by 2045, as many as 7.5 million Filipinos could be inflicted with diabetes, a condition that is often preventable and highly manageable when addressed early.
Type 2 diabetes is typically linked to lifestyle factors like poor diet, obesity, and physical inactivity, but usually manageable through proper nutrition, exercise, and oral medication.
When preventive measures do not suffice, doctors may recommend insulin or other therapies to stabilize blood sugar and prevent complications.
“When patients understand their condition and the treatment options available to them, it helps them become more open to making informed decisions and more confident in following their doctor’s advice,” Tenorio said.
As the country marks Diabetes Awareness Week, health advocates call for renewed efforts to fight misinformation and equip patients with tools to take control of their health.
“Aside from your doctor, if you need educational materials on diabetes management, get these only from trusted, science-backed resources,” Tenorio advised.
