-
Essay / Diabetes as a national health priority - 2286
Diabetes as a national health priorityIntroductionDiabetes mellitus is a chronic disease that affects more than 4% of Australians, as well as a significant proportion of people without the condition is not diagnosed (Harrison, Britt, Miller, & Henderson, 2013). In addition to this high prevalence, the potential to reduce the significant disease burden associated with diabetes through lifestyle changes necessitated its endorsement as a national health priority area (Colagiuri and Ward, 1998). Following this praise, the government initiative 'The National Diabetes Services Scheme' was introduced along with other lifestyle campaigns to provide support to people suffering from diabetes and combat the risk factors associated with diabetes ( Department of Health, 2013). Physiotherapy also plays a role in the prevention and management of diabetes, including the creation and implementation of exercise programs. As diabetes mellitus comes in 3 different forms, the following report will mainly focus on type 2 diabetes, as it is the most common, accounting for 85% of cases. of cases (Austalian Institute of Health and Welfare, 2013). Pathophysiology of diabetes Type 1 diabetes Type 1 diabetes has a genetic onset that often occurs during adolescence (Porth, 2005). It is an autoimmune disease in which the insulin-producing beta cells in the liver are destroyed (Dorman, 1993). This causes a deficit in insulin secretion, which ultimately leads to high blood glucose levels, also called hyperglycemia (Guthrie & Guthrie, 2004). The mechanism of insulin deficiency leading to hyperglycemia is described in more detail in the following section and in Figure 1. Type 2 Diabetes The onset of type 2 diabetes involves both genetic and environmental interaction. ...prevention through awareness and education is achieved through the work of government initiatives such as the National Diabetes Services Scheme and health campaigns including Measure Up. The SNSD also works to improve diabetes self-management. Physical therapists also play a role in diabetes management by implementing exercise programs. An evidence-based approach was used to create the proposed exercise program aimed at managing high blood sugar levels associated with insulin resistance in type 2 diabetes (Sigal et al., 2007). He used both aerobic training and resistance training, consistent with current knowledge of the most effective dosages for the population group. Physiotherapists should work alongside other healthcare professionals such as dietitians and GPs to provide optimal support and care to patients with diabetes..