As South Africa enters the summer season, millions of people living with diabetes face increased challenges in managing their condition. Rising temperatures and longer days can disrupt blood sugar levels, hydration, and medication storage, making it harder for individuals to control their diabetes. According to Dr. Veronica Netangaheni, a healthcare professional and founder of Dr Vee Health and Wellness, warm weather can quietly shift blood sugar levels from where they should be, posing significant risks to those living with diabetes.
Recent findings have shown that diabetes has overtaken HIV and tuberculosis as a leading cause of death in South Africa, a shift that should raise concerns among the public and healthcare professionals. Dr. Netangaheni emphasizes that diabetes has been living in whispers, and it is time to give it the same urgency and attention as HIV. She notes that many patients believe that taking one pill a day is enough to manage their condition, but in reality, medication is only one pillar of diabetes management, which also relies on a healthy diet, regular physical activity, and close monitoring of blood sugar levels.
Heat does not cause diabetes, but it can make the condition harder to manage. High temperatures increase fluid loss through sweating, which can lead to dehydration and push blood sugar levels higher. Dehydration can also cause fatigue, dizziness, and unwellness. Furthermore, warm weather can change people's routines, leading to irregular meals, longer days, more alcohol consumption, and more social gatherings, all of which can quietly shift blood sugar levels.
To manage diabetes effectively during the summer months, Dr. Netangaheni advises patients to drink water consistently throughout the day, rather than waiting to feel thirsty. She also recommends avoiding sugary cooldrinks, fruit juices, and flavoured iced teas, which can disguise a sugar spike as refreshment. Additionally, patients should check their blood sugar levels more often, store insulin and test strips properly, and exercise in the cooler parts of the day.
Dr. Netangaheni also stresses the importance of protecting one's feet during the summer months, as walking barefoot on hot pavement, sand, or poolside tiles can cause burns or cuts that may go unnoticed due to diabetes-related numbness. She recommends wearing sunscreen, loose, breathable clothing, and seeking medical attention early if symptoms of heat exhaustion or diabetes complications occur.
The issue of diabetes management is not limited to older individuals, as Dr. Netangaheni is seeing younger patients who are shaped by busy schedules, desk-bound jobs, convenience meals, and alcohol consumption. Many people have drifted away from traditional home-cooked meals and towards diets heavy in processed products, sugar, and unhealthy fats. Dr. Netangaheni believes that this trend is costing lives and that a change in diet and lifestyle is necessary.
Dr. Netangaheni emphasizes that healthy living should not begin with a diagnosis, and it should not take a holiday when the sun comes out. She advocates for sustained public education, early screening, prevention, and effective disease management, involving healthcare professionals, parents, schools, and communities. By working together, South Africa can reduce the risks associated with diabetes and promote a culture of healthy living.
Key points
- Diabetes has overtaken HIV and tuberculosis as a leading cause of death in South Africa.
- Warm weather can disrupt blood sugar levels, hydration, and medication storage, making it harder for individuals to control their diabetes.
- Public education, early screening, and prevention are crucial in managing diabetes and promoting healthy living in South Africa.
