TASK 2: READING INFORMATION TEXT
Read this information and answer the (5) questions that follow
What is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a long-term (chronic) health condition that affects how the body turns food into energy. Most of the food we eat is broken down into glucose (a type of sugar), which enters the bloodstream. The pancreas releases insulin—a hormone that helps glucose enter the body’s cells to be used for energy.
In people with diabetes, the body either does not produce enough insulin or cannot use insulin effectively, leading to high blood sugar levels. Over time, this can cause serious damage to organs, nerves, and blood vessels.
Types of Diabetes
There are three main types of diabetes:
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Type 1 Diabetes: An autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system attacks the insulin- producing cells in the pancreas. It often develops in children or young adults and requires lifelong insulin therapy.
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Type 2 Diabetes: The most common form, where the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough of it. It is more common in adults but increasingly seen in younger people due to lifestyle factors.
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Gestational Diabetes: Occurs during pregnancy and usually resolves after childbirth. However, it increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.
Common Symptoms of Diabetes
Some people may not have symptoms at all, especially in the early stages of type 2 diabetes. Common symptoms include:
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Excessive thirst and frequent urination
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Constant hunger
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Unexplained weight loss
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Fatigue
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Blurred vision
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Slow healing of cuts or wounds
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Tingling or numbness in the hands or feet (especially in type 2)
If left untreated, diabetes can lead to serious complications such as heart disease, kidney failure, vision problems, and nerve damage.
What Causes Diabetes?
The exact causes of diabetes vary depending on the type:
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Type 1 is believed to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors that trigger the immune system to attack the pancreas.
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Type 2 is strongly linked to:
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Genetics/family history
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Overweight or obesity
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Lack of physical activity
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Poor diet (high in sugar and processed foods)
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Increasing age
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High blood pressure or cholesterol
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Gestational diabetes is related to hormonal changes during pregnancy, along with a family history of diabetes or being overweight.
Managing and Treating Diabetes
While type 1 diabetes cannot be prevented and requires insulin therapy, type 2 diabetes and gestational diabetes can often be managed—or even prevented—through lifestyle changes and medication.
Treatment may involve:
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Monitoring blood glucose levels regularly
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Taking medications such as:
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Healthy eating, with a focus on low-GI (glycemic index) foods
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Regular physical activity to improve insulin sensitivity
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Weight management
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Foot care, eye checks, and regular health reviews to monitor for complications
Prevention and Healthy Living
For those at risk of developing type 2 diabetes, prevention is possible through:
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Maintaining a healthy weight
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Staying physically active (at least 30 minutes most days)
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Eating a balanced diet, rich in vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein
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Avoiding sugary drinks and processed foods
Getting regular check-ups, especially if you have a family history or other risk factors.
Diabetes is a serious condition, but with early diagnosis, the right treatment, and lifestyle support, people can live long, healthy lives. Education, awareness, and support are key to managing diabetes effectively.