Dear Reader,
Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how your body uses sugar, the body's main source of energy. When left untreated, diabetes can damage the heart, kidneys, eyes, nerves, and blood vessels. The good news is that with early diagnosis, healthy lifestyle changes, and proper medical care, most people with diabetes can live long and healthy lives.
Warning Signs of Diabetes
Be aware of these common symptoms:
Frequent urination
Excessive thirst
Increased hunger
Unexplained weight loss
Persistent fatigue
Blurred vision
Slow-healing cuts or wounds
Frequent infections (skin, gums, or urinary tract)
Tingling or numbness in the hands or feet
Sometimes there are no symptoms at all
If you experience any of these symptoms, schedule a medical evaluation as soon as possible.
Know Your Numbers
Diabetes is becoming increasingly common across the Caribbean.
Approximately 1 in 8 adults in the Caribbean is living with diabetes.
In Grenada, diabetes is among the leading causes of illness and contributes significantly to heart disease, kidney failure, stroke, blindness, and lower-limb amputations.
Knowing your numbers can help detect diabetes early:
Normal fasting blood sugar: Less than 100 mg/dL (5.6 mmol/L)
Prediabetes: 100–125 mg/dL (5.6–6.9 mmol/L)
Diabetes: 126 mg/dL (7.0 mmol/L) or higher on two separate tests
HbA1c (3-month average blood sugar):
Normal: Less than 5.7%
Prediabetes: 5.7–6.4%
Diabetes: 6.5% or higher
How is Diabetes Diagnosed?
Your doctor may diagnose diabetes using one or more of the following tests:
Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS)
HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin)
Random Blood Sugar
Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT), when appropriate
Treatment
Treatment depends on the type and severity of diabetes but generally includes:
Healthy eating with portion control
Regular physical activity (at least 2.5 hours per week)
Weight management
Blood sugar monitoring
Oral medications when indicated
Injectable medications (including GLP-1 receptor agonists or insulin) when necessary
Control of blood pressure and cholesterol to reduce the risk of complications
The goal is not only to lower blood sugar but also to protect the heart, kidneys, eyes, and nerves.
How Often Should You Visit Your Doctor?
Even if you feel well, regular check-ups are essential.
If you have diabetes: Visit your doctor every 3–6 months, or more frequently if your diabetes is not well controlled.
If you have prediabetes: An annual review is recommended, with more frequent visits if advised.
If you have risk factors (family history, obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, previous gestational diabetes, or age over 45): Have your blood sugar checked at least once a year.
Regular medical visits allow your healthcare provider to monitor your blood sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol, kidney function, foot health, and eye health—helping prevent serious complications before they occur.
Remember: Early detection saves lives. Know your numbers, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and work with your healthcare provider to keep diabetes under control.
Dr. Daniel Harford MD
General Practitioner
