November 14th is United Nations Diabetes Day, and this year's theme is "Diabetes and Well-being".
Liu Yuehong, Vice President and Chief Physician of the Endocrinology Department at Hainan Chengmei Hospital, pointed out in an exclusive interview with reporters that there are three major challenges in the current prevention and control of diabetes: low awareness, low treatment rate, and low compliance rate. The public's misunderstandings about diabetes remain a key bottleneck in its prevention and control.
(Vice President Liu Yuehong is currently seeing patients)
Data shows that the incidence rate of diabetes among Chinese adults has reached 11%–12%, and it is showing a significant upward trend. "However, about half of the patients are unaware of their condition, and some only discover abnormal blood sugar levels during physical examinations, missing the best opportunity for intervention," said Liu Yuehong. Diabetes, as a "sweet killer," poses a hidden threat, and many people only realize the severity when complications arise.
As an expert in diabetic retinopathy research, Liu Yuehong pointed out that this disease is one of the main causes of blindness in adults, and its mechanism is closely related to microvascular damage, oxidative stress, and neuronal lesions caused by long-term hyperglycemia. She reminded that intermittent blurred vision, a small amount of black spots/floating objects in front of the eyes, mild nighttime vision loss, or poor contrast sensitivity are all early signs of retinopathy, and diabetic patients need to undergo regular fundus screening.
In terms of genetic research, Liu Yuehong stated that genetic polymorphism analysis is helpful in predicting disease risk and guiding medication. For example, individuals carrying mutations in the VEGF gene are more prone to retinal lesions, requiring earlier and stricter control of blood sugar levels and shorter follow-up intervals. She predicts that with the popularization of genetic testing, diabetes treatment will gradually move towards an "individualized targeted era".
For confirmed patients, Liu Yuehong proposed a "5+7+1" management model: monitoring five core indicators, namely glycosylated hemoglobin, blood pressure, body weight, blood lipids, and urinary microalbumin; focusing on seven target organs, including the heart, brain, kidneys, eyes, nerves, feet, and skin; and consistently adhering to lifestyle intervention. She particularly emphasized the importance of diabetic foot management, stating that "minor foot injuries can develop into severe infections and even amputation." She advised patients to self-examine their feet daily and promptly address any injuries.
In terms of digital healthcare, Hainan Chengmei Hospital has implemented remote blood glucose monitoring and the application of wearable devices. Liu Yuehong believes that digital devices can help patients understand the correlation between blood glucose fluctuations and lifestyle, but excessive anxiety should be avoided. The hospital provides real-time alerts through the doctor's terminal to promptly guide patients in adjusting their treatment plans, especially for diabetic patients with comorbid tumors, where blood glucose management needs to be more refined.
For newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes patients, Liu Yuehong gave three core suggestions.
1. Maintain a peaceful mindset and build confidence that diabetes is both preventable and treatable;
2. Immediately undergo a comprehensive physical examination to assess baseline health status;
3. Regular follow-ups and dynamic monitoring of indicator changes are essential. Being diagnosed with diabetes may be an opportunity for change. Through a healthy lifestyle and effective treatment, the quality of life and lifespan of individuals with diabetes may be superior to those of their peers.
Liu Yuehong called for collaborative efforts among doctors, patients, families, and society in the prevention and treatment of diabetes. Family members should support patients in dietary management, while society needs to provide more sugar-free foods, fitness facilities, and psychological care.
With the development of technologies such as digitalization and genetic testing, diabetes management is entering a more precise and convenient era. Liu Yuehong stated that in the future, efforts will continue to be made to promote the construction of a diabetes prevention and control system in Hainan, facilitating the implementation and effectiveness of the "Healthy Hainan" initiative.
Expert Introduction
Liu Yuehong, Chief Physician
Vice President, Doctor of Medicine
Other high-level talents in Hainan Province
Medical expertise: With years of experience in the diagnosis and treatment of metabolic diseases, endocrine system diseases, and osteoporosis; particularly with in-depth research on the pathogenesis and genetic polymorphism of diabetic retinopathy.
Source | China News Service