Seventy precent of all diabetics in the Kingdom die from heart disease, according to the Saudi Diabetes and Endocrine Association (SDEA). The SDEA said this development is alarming because of the increasing number of Saudis with diabetes. The Saudi Ministry of Health has reported that 14 percent of the Saudi population suffers from the disease, a situation that has compelled government agencies to launch a year-round awareness campaign on the prevention and management of diabetes. “The situation could be improved if the population would adopt a healthy lifestyle,” said Dr. Basem M. Futa, chairman of the scientific committee of the SDEA, in a press statement. He said the major causes of this high rate of death are poor blood sugar control, and the elevation of blood pressure and lipids, which reduce the life span of diabetic people by 10 years. Because unhealthy lifestyles play a major role in this high rate of death, in addition to disabilities, patients' admission to hospitals, cardiac surgeries and medical costs, the SDEA has released the following health advisories. u Focus on controlling blood sugar levels. Even moderate elevation of blood sugar has a negative impact on heart health. u Detect diabetes in its early stages. The SDEA calls on everyone over 45 years of age who is obese or has a family history of diabetes to assess their risk for diabetes and to discuss the risk factors with their doctors. u Avoid smoking (active or passive). Several studies have indicated that passive or indirect smoking is risky for diabetic people. The SDEA has called for a ban on smoking in all national companies, commercial centers, enclosed areas and work locations. u Control blood pressure. Performing home monitoring of blood sugar and blood pressure is important for diabetic people. u Maintain blood lipids within the recommended levels. This mainly focuses on reducing the cholesterol level, increasing good cholesterol and reducing bad cholesterol and triglycerides levels. u Avoid obesity through a healthy diet and by exercising moderately and regularly. The SDEA reminds diabetic people to avoid any unplanned and vigorous exercise as it can be harmful to their hearts. Brisk walking for 30 minutes on a daily basis is the best and safest recommended exercise. u Consume healthy foods that are low in salt as well as low fat or non-fat foods that are rich in fiber and antioxidants, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. In addition, the SDEA recommends reducing the consumption of saturated fat by selecting low fat or non-fat milk products, avoidance of butter, ghee, and fatty pastries. Olive oil is good for heart health, but should be consumed in moderation. The SDEA concluded that it is important that diabetic people adopt healthy lifestyles, such as healthy shopping, healthy cooking, consuming healthy foods, practicing stress management, having medical checkups, avoiding smoking, taking medication to reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke as advised by their doctors and avoiding the use of alcohol, in addition to controlling blood sugar, blood pressure and lipids within normal ranges.
