MEDIA RELEASE 8 November 2006 Diabetes alert, be smart and get tested The World Diabetes Day takes place from 14th November 2006. The City of Johannesburg Health Department will like to create awareness of this health condition that affects many people. Let us all participate in these important events taking place in different Regions of the City Of Johannesburg. Diabetes mellitus is a group of diseases characterized by high levels of blood glucose resulting from defects in insulin production, insulin action, or both. Diabetes can be associated with serious complications and premature death, but people with diabetes can take steps to control the disease and lower the risk of complications. Diabetes affects a huge number of South Africans. There is a lot that can be learnt by attending your nearest clinic. KNOW THE SIGNS If your body cannot change the food that you eat into energy, you might have diabetes, especially if: you are 35 years or older, overweight and you have a family member with diabetes or you have high blood pressure. Signs of diabetes includes: Often feeling very thirsty. Always feeling tired. Urinating more than usual. Not seeing well. Getting sores and boils that won't heal. Losing weight while eating normally. Having itchy private parts. Have tingling or numb feet. Control Diabetes Go for a simple urine and blood tests at your local clinic or doctor. This will show if you could have diabetes and require additional examination and treatment. Talk to a health worker about your health results. They will explain how your diabetes can be controlled. Some people need pills, other injections, other do not need medicine. If you have diabetes and do nothing to control it, you are at risk of: Blindness Heart diseases A stroke Kidney failure Losing a foot or a leg Live a healthy Life You can get diabetes and be healthy, only if you make a special effort, to eat the correct food. For diabetes this means: Small regular meals Lots of vegetables Cutting out sugar and including cool drinks, cakes and sweets (except for the special diabetic products). Not too much bread, pap, rice, and potatoes Cutting down fats and oils Avoiding alcohol and smoking Watch your weight Exercise Regularly Find exercise you like doing. Do it 3 to 4 times a week, Fast walking is great; dancing is good, running, swimming or gym. Other important examinations Get your eyes tested every year. Take good care of feet. Take your treatment as requested whether you are on piles or insulin injections Always take your treatment regularly "Remember" you can control diabetes. For further information please visit your nearest clinic. If you are a Diabetic – subscribe with "Diabetic South Africa" - telephone: (011) 483 0341 Ends. Further information contact: Nkosinathi Nkabinde City Of Johannesburg Health Department Communication Officer Tel: (011) 407 6477 E-mail: nkosinathin@joburg.org.za