This stat is crazy.

Every three minutes, another Canadian is diagnosed with diabetes.

The Numbers Don’t Lie.

Diabetes, both Type 1 and Type 2, along with gestational diabetes, affects a substantial portion of the Canadian population. It's estimated by Diabetes Canada that nearly 5.7 million Canadians are living with this condition. In addition, another 5 million Canadians are estimated to live with prediabetes. As such, everyone must know about it, so we can better take control of our health. 

What is Diabetes?

In simple terms, diabetes is a disorder that impacts how your body uses glucose, which is the sugar that fuels your cells.

Let's dive into the three primary types of diabetes: Type 1 diabetes, Type 2 diabetes, and gestational diabetes, and get a better understanding of what each of them entails.

Type 1 Diabetes: The Autoimmune Battle

Type 1 diabetes, often referred to as juvenile diabetes, is an autoimmune disease. This means that the body's immune system, which typically defends against harmful invaders, mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Insulin is a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels.

About 9% of people diagnosed with diabetes in Canada have Type 1. 

What Happens:

• In Type 1 diabetes, the pancreas can't produce or make enough insulin.

• Without insulin, sugar (glucose) from the food you eat can't enter your cells to provide energy.

• As a result, sugar accumulates in the bloodstream, causing high blood sugar levels.

Treatment: 

• Individuals with Type 1 diabetes rely on external insulin, usually delivered through injections or an insulin pump, to manage their blood sugar levels. Regular monitoring of blood sugar and a carefully balanced diet are also essential.

Risk of Diabetic Retinopathy in Type 1 Diabetes

• People with Type 1 diabetes are generally at a higher risk of developing diabetic retinopathy than those without diabetes.

• The risk of diabetic retinopathy in Type 1 diabetes is influenced by the duration of the disease, glycemic control (how well blood sugar levels are managed), and genetic factors.

• The relative risk is generally considered higher in Type 1 diabetes compared to Type 2 diabetes, especially if blood sugar levels are not well controlled.

• The risk of developing retinopathy is usually higher because people will generally live with the condition for decades. 

• People with Type 1 diabetes should have an annual dilated eye exam with an optometrist. 

Type 2 Diabetes: Lifestyle and Genetics at Play

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes, often associated with lifestyle factors and genetic predisposition. In this case, the body still produces insulin, but it either doesn't use it effectively or doesn't produce enough of it.

About 90% of people diagnosed with diabetes in Canada have Type 2. 

What Happens:

• Cells become resistant to insulin, making it challenging for sugar to enter them.

• The pancreas responds by producing more insulin, but it may not be enough to keep blood sugar in check.

Treatment: 

• Managing Type 2 diabetes often involves lifestyle changes such as adopting a healthy diet, increasing physical activity, and sometimes taking oral medications or insulin injections. Regular blood sugar monitoring is essential.

Risk of Diabetic Retinopathy with Type 2 Diabetes: 

• The risk can vary widely depending on factors such as the duration of diabetes, blood sugar control, and other risk factors like high blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

• While the relative risk of diabetic retinopathy is generally lower in Type 2 diabetes compared to Type 1 diabetes, it can still be significant, especially if diabetes is poorly managed.

• People with Type 2 diabetes should have an annual dilated eye exam with an optometrist. 

Gestational Diabetes: Temporary Diabetes During Pregnancy

Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy when a woman who didn't previously have diabetes develops high blood sugar levels. It typically occurs in the second or third trimester.

About 1% of people diagnosed with diabetes in Canada have gestational diabetes. Between 4-7% of women will be diagnosed with gestational diabetes during their pregnancy.

What Happens:

• Hormonal changes during pregnancy can affect insulin's effectiveness.

• The body may struggle to produce enough insulin to keep blood sugar levels in the normal range.

Treatment: 

• Managing gestational diabetes usually involves dietary changes, regular physical activity, and, in some cases, insulin therapy. Monitoring blood sugar levels is crucial for the health of both the mother and the baby.

Risk of Diabetic Retinopathy with Gestational Diabetes: 

• The risk of developing diabetic retinopathy due to gestational diabetes is relatively low because gestational diabetes typically resolves after pregnancy.

• However, women with a history of gestational diabetes may have a slightly increased risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life, which, if poorly controlled, can increase the risk of diabetic retinopathy.

• People with gestational diabetes generally don't require a dilated eye exam during pregnancy unless they are noticing changes in their vision. 

What You Need to Remember About Diabetes.

In summary, diabetes is a condition that affects how your body handles glucose, leading to high blood sugar levels. Type 1 diabetes results from an autoimmune attack on insulin-producing cells. Type 2 diabetes often involves insulin resistance, and gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy due to hormonal changes.

Understanding these different types of diabetes is the first step in managing and living well with the condition. With proper treatment, lifestyle adjustments, and regular monitoring, individuals with diabetes can lead healthy and fulfilling lives. Remember, knowledge and proactive management are your allies in the fight against diabetes.

FYI: Are Diabetes Eye Exams Covered in Alberta? 

Yes. In Alberta, diabetes eye exams are covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP). The coverage includes regular eye health examinations for individuals with diabetes to monitor their eye health and detect any signs of diabetic retinopathy or other diabetes-related eye complications such as cataracts. At Stonewire Optometry, our eye doctors are experts in providing comprehensive eye care tailored to individuals with diabetes. We use the latest technology such as Optomap Ultra Widefield Imaging, 3D OCT Retinal Imaging, in addition to traditional dilated eye exams.

Please note that diabetic eye health exams do not produce a prescription for eyeglasses or contact lenses. 

If you have any questions about diabetes, drop them in the comment section below. At Stonewire Optometry, we provide in-depth diabetes eye care. Our advanced cameras let you 'See What We See,' allowing you to understand your eye health better. You can book your diabetes eye exam by giving us a call, or you can book your eye exam online.