1 in 5 Adults in Mauritius Living with Diabetes, Doctor Debunks Myths

Nearly one in five adults in Mauritius is living with diabetes, according to 2024 estimates from the International Diabetes Federation. This statistic takes on added significance as the island nation marks World Diabetes Day on November 14. Dr. Nikhil Anand Bachoo, an internal medicine consultant at C-Care, is addressing the public health challenge by debunking widespread misconceptions about diabetes. He emphasizes that early detection and medical guidance are crucial in managing the disease.

Dr. Bachoo highlights the insidious nature of diabetes, warning that the belief "if I have no symptoms, I am not diabetic" is particularly dangerous. Type 2 diabetes can develop silently for years without obvious symptoms, with many individuals only discovering their diagnosis during a routine blood test or after complications have arisen. The medical community recommends screening starting at age 35, or earlier for individuals who are overweight or obese, or those with certain risk factors such as ethnic origin, family history, hypertension, or physical inactivity.

Screening for diabetes typically involves two complementary tests: fasting blood glucose and HbA1c. Patients should watch for key warning signs, including frequent urination, excessive thirst, persistent fatigue, or unexplained weight loss. Other symptoms may include slow-healing wounds, blurred vision, tingling and numbness in the hands and feet, dark patches on the skin, or persistent itching. Dr. Bachoo stresses that early detection and medical guidance are vital in managing the disease.

Dr. Bachoo addresses common myths surrounding lifestyle, diet, and disease severity. He notes that while excess sugar is a factor in diabetes, it is not the sole cause, and eliminating sugar entirely does not guarantee protection against Type 2 diabetes. Additionally, Dr. Bachoo clarifies that Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease, whereas Type 2 stems from a combination of factors, including insulin resistance, dietary habits, and a sedentary lifestyle.

Dr. Bachoo also dispels myths about specific food groups, such as carbohydrates, which can raise blood sugar levels but do not need to be eliminated entirely. He advises patients to practice portion control and combine carbohydrates with proteins, fats, and fibers to influence glycemic impact. Furthermore, Dr. Bachoo emphasizes that diabetics are not completely banned from consuming sugar, but moderation is essential, and doctors or dietitians should help tailor recommendations to each patient's needs and treatment.

Physical activity is another crucial aspect of diabetes management, according to Dr. Bachoo. He stresses that exercise is not dangerous for diabetics and can help reduce insulin resistance and control associated conditions like hypertension and high cholesterol. However, precautions are necessary for those on insulin or certain medications, making medical supervision essential. Dr. Bachoo also notes that Type 2 diabetes is not less severe than Type 1, as both can lead to cardiovascular, renal, neurological, and ocular complications if left unmanaged.

While medical management relies heavily on lifestyle adjustments, modern research is opening new doors. In some cases of Type 2 diabetes, remission is possible through significant, sustainable weight loss, structured dietary changes, and regular physical activity. A landmark 2024 study involving a 25-year-old woman with Type 1 diabetes who received an islet cell transplant derived from her own reprogrammed stem cells showed promising results, with the patient producing her own natural insulin and going without injections for over a year.

Key points

• Dr. Nikhil Anand Bachoo emphasizes the importance of early detection and medical guidance in managing diabetes.
• Common misconceptions about diabetes include the idea that sugar is the sole cause of Type 2 diabetes and that exercise is dangerous for diabetics.
• Modern research is exploring new treatments, including islet cell transplants and remission through lifestyle changes.