Today marks the birthday of Frederick G. Banting – the Canadian scientists thanks to whom many people with diabetes got a chance to lead a normal life. In 1922 Frederick Banting played the key part in isolating insulin and discovering its qualities in relation to diabetes. Insulin appeared on the market by the end of 1922 and in 1923 Eli Lilly & Co began its large-scale manufacturing. Insulin saved millions of lives of people with diabetes since then.
In 2007 Frederick Banting’s birthday, November 14 has become the World Diabetes Day. The theme for 2021-2023 World Diabetes Day is access to diabetes care. 100 years since its discovery, insulin still remains beyond the reach of many who need it. World Diabetes Day is also intended to raise awareness not only about the number of people with diabetes, but also about its timely diagnostics, treatment, and prevention.
These simple (or not so simple) measures may help avoid Type 2 diabetes or, at least, delay its appearance:
- Lack of excessive weight.
- Sufficient physical activity.
- Healthy diet with no more than moderate use of sugars and saturated fats.
- No smoking or excessive drinking.
- A complete physical no less than once a year.
Keep an eye on the following early signs of diabetes:
- Constant and strong thirst and hunger.
- Unusual weight loss.
- Tiredness.
- Frequent urination, often at night.
- Wounds and sores heal slower than normal.
- Blurry vision.
- Numb or tingling hands and feet.
- More infections than usual.
Remember that early diagnostics and treatment of diabetes are the key to your health and wellbeing!