These complications commonly affect the eyes, the kidneys, the nerves or neuropathy (causing the loss of sensation in the feet which can lead to amputation), and heart disease.

Dr. Mirasol, who is past president of the Philippine Society of Endocrinology and Metabolism (PSEM), said that heart disease has become a major concern when treating diabetes and that there is a two to four times increased risk for heart disease among diabetes sufferers.

With the growing incidence and prevalence of type 2 diabetes both locally and globally, Dr. Mirasol said that type 2 diabetes is brought on mainly because of a person’s lifestyle, as well as an increasing incidence of obesity.

Dr. Roberto Mirasol

"More and more of our children are becoming overweight and obese. So if a person is overweight, he is more prone to diabetes. In addition, if you are already genetically susceptible or predisposed (with a family history of the disease), all the more you are at risk of developing diabetes. So, it is a balance between the genetic susceptibility and environmental factors," he added.

Dr. Mirasol advised people who are at risk or are in the ‘pre-diabetic’ stage to cut down on sweets and fatty food, and to exercise regularly.

"The pre-diabetes stage is also what is referred to as the ‘impaired glucose tolerance’ or IGT stage. Impaired glucose intolerants are patients who are not yet diabetic, but they are also not normal. Their blood sugar levels are a little bit high but they do not yet fill the criteria for diabetes. And when we do the glucose tolerance test on such persons, we can see that they have a tendency towards having diabetes."

IGT can hit at any age. If you are high risk, have had previous glucose intolerance, have a family history of diabetes, or if you are obese, it is best to consult your doctor and have a blood sugar test.

Usually there are no signs or symptoms of diabetes. However, most diabetics experience polyuria (frequent urination), blurred vision, feeling of fatigue or dizziness, are always thirsty or hungry, and itching in the vaginal area (in women).

Extensive research has been conducted to produce newer and better medications for type 2 diabetes treatment, such as thiazolidinediones (the glitazones), GLP-1 analogues, and the newest class called DPP-4 (dipeptidyl peptidase-4) inhibitors.

Clinical data have shown that DPP-4 inhibitors like sitagliptin helped improve the way type 2 diabetes is treated. It is believed that type 2 diabetics will greatly benefit from this new type of medication, particularly the elderly and those with renal (kidney) problems who need treatment with an oral anti-diabetic.

This new anti-diabetes drug enhances the body’s own ability to secrete insulin. There is therefore less hypoglycemia or low blood sugar. Low blood sugar commonly occurs in the elderly and those with kidney problems.

If you suspect that you have diabetes – have a blood sugar test and check your lifestyle. "Diabetes is a life-long disease. Diabetics should really take care of themselves. They should watch what they eat and should exercise more.

They should take the medicines prescribed to them and should see their doctor as often as possible. By being vigilant, the complications associated with this dreaded disease can be reduced significantly. With this, we hope to have a better quality of life for diabetic sufferers," Dr. Mirasol concluded.