The Diabetes Overview section provides basic information about:
- types of diabetes
- diabetes symptoms
- conditions or risk factors that may lead to diabetes
- diabetes in children
- diabetes and seniors
- diabetes and pregnancy
Maybe you have been newly diagnosed and are looking for a starting point for information. Or perhaps you are looking for resources because you are caring for someone with diabetes. We’re delighted you have started your journey of discovery with us!
There are over 3 million people in Canada living with diabetes. There is more than one type of diabetes, so it is important to know the name of the type of diabetes that you or your family member have been diagnosed with. It will usually be one of the following three types:
Maybe you, your child or another family member have some symptoms that make you believe that you might have developed diabetes. This is where you can learn more about symptoms of diabetes.
Life is a journey, and so is diabetes. You may start out wondering if you are at risk, because you are concerned that another family member has been diagnosed, or your doctor has identified some risk factors. Read more about risk of diabetes, here.
If you are diagnosed, self-management is very important in order to control blood glucose levels and reduce complications.
The type 2 diabetes treatment plan includes a combination of:
- healthy eating
- physical activity, and in most cases
- medication
Type 1 diabetes is mainly managed with insulin.
What about ‘borderline diabetes‘, also known as ‘prediabetes’? According to Diabetes Canada, more than 5.7 million people have prediabetes. To gain a better understanding of what this term means and how to prevent this from progressing to diabetes, read the section about prediabetes.
After you check out these introductory pages about the types of diabetes, you can gain a deeper understanding by exploring the many articles and blog posts in the Diabetes Care Community.
Diabetes Overview Articles
My routine blood glucose test result: what does it mean?If you are at risk for diabetes, your family doctor will want you to have a routine blood glucose test at regular intervals.
Prediabetes or type 2 diabetes: how do I know?The reality is, you can have prediabetes and even type 2 diabetes, without realizing it because the symptoms may not be apparent. Left unmanaged, there is a good chance prediabetes will turn into type 2 diabetes eventually.
How do you know when to screen for prediabetes?Many people with prediabetes feel completely fine, even though their blood sugar levels are already higher than they should be. Prediabetes screening is a simple but powerful way to take charge of your health before problems begin.
Am I at risk for type 2 diabetes?If you are a close family member of the individual with diabetes that you support, you are automatically at risk of developing the condition.
Diabetes and summer campSummer camp is part of the magic of childhood, bringing enchanting memories along with new friendships, greater confidence and new-found independence.
What’s new in type 1 diabetes research?Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a chronic autoimmune condition in which insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas are mistakenly destroyed by the body’s immune system.
Screening for type 1 diabetes: the pros and cons of knowing earlyWhat if you could prepare for a diagnosis of type 1 diabetes instead of being blindsided by it? This puts me in mind of the expression “To be forewarned is to be forearmed”. Until recently, type 1 diagnosis was not predictable.
How can I check if I have diabetes?Are you wondering, do I have diabetes? The reality is, anyone can develop this disease. That’s why it’s so important to be aware of signs and symptoms that may signal diabetes and get tested for a proper diagnosis. Here are some key ways to check if you have diabetes or may be at risk for developing it in the future.
It’s time to tackle diabetes stigma and the school environmentChildren flourish when they are safe, secure, loved, and given the freedom to explore their world in ways that reflect their abilities. At the same time, children are vulnerable; they are naturally dependent on others around them.
Diabetes and AgingCanadians living with diabetes face new health risks as they get older. Learn what you need to know about aging with diabetes - and how to stay as healthy as possible.
