[su_note note_color=”#f8f8f0″ radius=”7″]Along with its economic prosperity, Korea has undergone rapid changes in dietary patterns and lifestyles. Unfortunately, these transformations have had the unintended consequence of spreading the “sweet devil” – diabetes. As of 2020, 1 in 7 Korean adults had been diagnosed with diabetes, and this number is projected to increase in the future.[/su_note]
[su_heading size=”27″ align=”left” margin=”40″]1. The Gravity of the Diabetes Pandemic in Korea[/su_heading]
- Astonishing Prevalence: Korea has one of the highest diabetes prevalence rates among OECD countries. In 2020, 13.8% of the adult population had been diagnosed with diabetes, with 19.2% of males and 14.3% of females aged 30 and over being diabetic patients.
- Diabetes Getting Younger: Previously considered a disease of the elderly, diabetes now threatens even the younger generation. The fact that 7.5% of Koreans aged 20 and over are in the pre-diabetic stage is a shocking statistic.
- Economic Burden of Treatment: Diabetes places a significant burden not only on individuals but also on the national economy. In 2018, the cost of diabetes treatment in Korea reached 1.2 trillion won.
[su_heading size=”27″ align=”left” margin=”40″]2. The Claws of the Sweet Devil: Risk Factors of Diabetes[/su_heading]
Modern Lifestyle
- Unhealthy Dietary Habits: Increased overeating, fast food consumption, and high sugar content in food
- Lack of Exercise: Sedentary lifestyle due to busy work schedules
- Chronic Stress: Excessive work and social stress
- Genetic Factors: Increased risk of developing diabetes if there is a family history of the disease
- Other Factors: Hypertension, obesity, hypercholesterolemia
[su_heading size=”27″ align=”left” margin=”40″]3. Strategies to Defeat the Devil: Prevention and Management of Diabetes[/su_heading]
Healthy Eating Habits
- Avoiding overeating, increasing vegetable and fruit intake, and increasing fiber intake
- Reducing sugary drinks and processed food consumption
- Consuming healthy fats (omega-3 fatty acids, etc.)
Regular Exercise
- At least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise daily (brisk walking, jogging, etc.)
- Strength training at least 2-3 times a week
Stress Management
- Utilizing stress-relieving methods such as meditation, yoga, and deep breathing
- Getting enough sleep (7-8 hours per day)
Regular Check-ups
- Adults aged 30 and over should get tested for diabetes annually
- Get tested more frequently if you have risk factors for diabetes
Active Treatment
- Establish a professional treatment plan upon diabetes diagnosis
- Blood sugar management, medication, and complication prevention
[su_heading size=”27″ align=”left” margin=”40″]4. A Message of Hope: Overcoming Diabetes and Reclaiming a Healthy Life[/su_heading]
Diabetes is a formidable devil, but it can be effectively managed through early detection, proper treatment, and a healthy lifestyle.
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