Increased sugar consumption triggers a spike in cases of Type 2 diabetes in Turkey
In a recent warning, Dr. Can Akçura, a renowned endocrinology and metabolic diseases specialist, highlighted the growing public health concern of Type 2 diabetes in Turkey. Akçura's concerns are based on the fact that Turkey's sugar intake has surpassed the global average, with each person consuming around 35 kilograms of sugar per year, compared to the global average of 24 kilograms.
This excessive sugar consumption, according to Akçura, can lead to serious complications, including damage to multiple organs, increased mortality in cardiovascular disease, strokes, nerve damage, and the potential need for partial amputation. Diabetes, a metabolic disorder that can affect multiple organs and systems, significantly impacts long-term health and quality of life.
However, Akçura emphasized that diabetes can be managed effectively. Regular check-ups, adherence to medication, a healthy diet, and regular exercise can help patients maintain their health and life expectancy. After diagnosis, treatment for Type 2 diabetes includes medication and lifestyle changes such as exercise, diet, and careful monitoring of sugar intake.
The prevalence of Type 2 diabetes in Turkey is increasing at a rate faster than the global trend, a trend closely associated with obesity and metabolic syndrome. Obesity, high cholesterol, and other components of metabolic syndrome further increase the risk of heart, neurological, and kidney diseases in diabetes patients.
Akçura attributed the increase in Type 2 diabetes in Turkey to widespread unhealthy eating habits and changes in lifestyle. He emphasized that awareness campaigns like World Sugar Awareness Week are crucial to inform the public about the dangers of excessive sugar consumption. Small changes, like reducing processed foods and increasing home-prepared meals, can have a significant impact on public health.
The goal to combat rising diabetes rates is to bring Turkey's sugar intake down to global standards. Akçura's hope is that through dietary changes, particularly reducing sugar consumption, Turkey can address this growing health crisis and improve the health and wellbeing of its citizens.
