Diabetes is a major health concern in the Philippines, now ranking as the fourth leading cause of mortality.1 In 2021, the number of Filipinos diagnosed with diabetes was pegged at 4 million.2 Alarming statistics from the Diabetes Atlas of the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) projected that by the year 2030, this number will increase to 5.4 million.3 Thus, it is crucial to equip Filipinos with the necessary knowledge to prevent and properly manage diabetes.

Sanofi General Medicines has taken an active step in creating awareness and support for individuals living with diabetes through its diabetes education Facebook page, “Step Up For Diabetes PH.”

The page recently hosted a heartwarming “Sweet Chat” session entitled "Living the Sweet Life: How to Beat Diabetes,” aimed at shedding light on diabetes, and educating patients on how to take control of the condition to achieve good quality of life.

Endocrinologist Dr. Roy Raoul Felipe, Head of the Center for Diabetes, Thyroid, and Endocrine Disorders – Diabetic Foot Program at St. Luke’s Medical Center, emphasized during the talk that the most common type of diabetes is type 2 diabetes, which he called a “lifestyle disease” as the person’s lifestyle plays a big part in the development of the disease in addition to family history and age4. Dr. Felipe shared that the absence of symptoms does not rule out diabetes and further added, "We urge all Filipinos, starting at the age of 35, to undergo yearly check-ups, including getting a simple blood test to screen for diabetes."

The session also highlighted the inspiring personal journey of Mr. Edward Ty, a 52-year old health advocate and person living with diabetes. Mr. Ty shared, “My initial reaction when I learned that I had diabetes was mostly fear and anxiety. My children then were still young, so worrying about the future consumed me. But I realized later that the fear only came from not knowing and understanding the disease.” He added, “It’s important to understand your medical condition, so always seek regular consultation with your doctor.” He also emphasized that people living with diabetes will be able to better manage the disease when they have the support of their family and friends. “I taught my son how to inject insulin so sometimes he does it for me. My whole family enjoys the same activities I enjoy, like walking and dancing. That’s very helpful because it encourages me to continue doing what I need to do to manage my diabetes.”

Actress, television host, and moderator of the Sweet Chat session, Dianne Medina, also drew from her personal experience of caring for her father who also has diabetes. She urged viewers to support their loved ones in managing this condition such as encouraging them to adopt a healthy lifestyle, accompanying them to their check-ups, and displaying utmost care for their medical needs.

Lastly, Dr. Felipe reminded viewers to not be afraid of the disease – as having diabetes is not a life sentence because it can be controlled. Persons living with this condition can still “live the sweet life” if they are able to properly manage it and get the right support.

Through this Sweet Chat episode, Sanofi General Medicines continues to support Filipinos with diabetes by raising awareness and understanding of the disease. For more information about diabetes and its proper management, like and follow Sanofi Philippines' Step up for Diabetes PH Facebook Page.

Diabetes is a serious condition with severe effects that can last a lifetime. However, there are many misconceptions regarding diabetes that make people think certain foods or situations will immediately make them diabetics. Thus, it is essential to know the myths and facts about diabetes.

“Genetics and lifestyle are major causes of having diabetes. It should be taken seriously, but it’s important to remember that not everything you hear about diabetes is true. Learn the facts, so you can make knowledgeable decisions to prevent the disease,” says Dr. Nicky Montoya, president of MediCard Philippines.

Here’s a list of diabetes myths and corresponding facts:

Myth: Diabetes is caused by eating too much sugar.

Fact: Weight gain is one of the risk factors in developing diabetes. A diet that is high in excess calories can be a cause of excess weight. Drinking sugary drinks such as sodas has been linked to excess weight, thus, increasing a person’s risk for developing diabetes. However it is not yet proven that too much sugar directly causes diabetes.

Myth: Women with diabetes should not get pregnant.

Fact: Women who manage their diabetes well can have a normal pregnancy and give birth to a healthy baby. But a woman with diabetes should keep her blood glucose (sugar) in the target range—both before she is pregnant and during pregnancy.

Myth: People with diabetes cannot donate blood.

Fact: Diabetics are eligible to donate blood as long as their sugar level is controlled, are in good health, their blood pressure is below 180/100 and are not anemic. On the day of the blood donation, they need to remember to eat an adequate meal, drink extra fluids, and avoid drinking caffeinated beverages. It is also advisable for diabetics to stay away from fatty foods, as it might affect some of the tests done to determine their eligibility for blood donation.

Myth: Diabetics should never consume alcoholic drinks.

Fact: Diabetics are advised to avoid drinking alcohol since it may lead to a major drop in blood sugar. However, according to some studies, one drink of alcohol is allowed once a week depending on one’s health conditions. It is recommended for a diabetic to monitor his blood sugar before, during, and after drinking alcohol.

Myth: Diabetics should not eat rice.

Fact: All foods containing carbohydrates may affect diabetes. The key to maintaining good blood sugar level and preventing long-term complications is getting the right amount of carbohydrates in one’s diet. Also, the quantity and quality of the rice a diabetic can consume always depends on the nature and degree of the diabetes.

Diabetes should be taken seriously and managed properly. MediCard has 12 free-standing clinics nationwide that can give you more information about diabetes, as well as consultations, and laboratory tests. Visit a MediCard clinic near you or check out their website at www.medicardphils.com for more information.