Posted On: November 25, 2024

Raising Diabetes Awareness: Personalized Insights for Men and Women

As a physician, my mission is to ensure that you have the knowledge and tools to live your healthiest, most vibrant life. One of the most pressing health issues affecting adults today is diabetes—a condition that touches the lives of nearly 12% of Americans (over 38 million people) and often goes unnoticed until significant complications arise. One in five people with diabetes don’t even know they have it. Together, we can change that through awareness, proactive management, and personalized care.

In this blog, I want to share some insights on how diabetes presents and progresses in both women and men, the differences in care, and the opportunities we must manage and even prevent this condition.

What is Diabetes? Understanding the Differences Between Men and Women
At its core, diabetes arises when your body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or struggles to use it effectively. This leads to elevated blood sugar levels, which, over time, can damage blood vessels, nerves, and organs. Left unmanaged, diabetes increases the risk of heart disease, kidney problems, vision loss, and more. There’s an adage in the medical community which states, “It’s not IF a person with diabetes will develop heart disease, but WHEN.”

There are two main types of diabetes:

• Type 1 Diabetes: Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition in which the body attacks insulin-producing cells. It constitutes about 5-10% of all diabetes cases in the world. It is most frequently diagnosed in children and adolescents, though it can be diagnosed at any age. While rates are relatively balanced between men and women, there may be regional differences, with some studies suggesting a slight male predominance.
• Type 2 Diabetes: Far more common, Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin. It makes up 90-95% of all diabetes cases, and incidence rates are rising, even among children, due to increasing rates of obesity. While studies show men may develop Type 2 diabetes slightly more often, women face unique risks related to hormonal changes, pregnancy, and weight gain after menopause.
  While the general symptoms of diabetes—frequent urination, fatigue, blurred vision, and increased thirst—are similar for men and women, there are gender-specific nuances:
• For Women: Diabetes in women may present with added challenges like recurrent urinary tract infections, yeast infections, and complications related to hormonal changes, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Women with diabetes also face a higher risk of cardiovascular complications compared to their male counterparts.
• For Men: Diabetes in men is mostly associated with low testosterone levels, which can affect mumscle mass, mood, and energy levels. Men may also experience faster onset of complications, such as kidney disease or vision loss.
  Understanding these gender-specific differences is crucial, as it allows us to tailor treatments and interventions that meet your individual needs.

Gender-Specific Approaches to Diabetes Management

Management strategies for diabetes must be as individualized as the patients they serve. Research indicates that women are often diagnosed later in the disease process than men, making early detection critical. Differences in managing diabetes can include medication dosages, recommended diets, and types of lifestyle changes.

• For Women: Managing cardiovascular risk factors such as cholesterol and blood pressure is key, since women with diabetes are more prone to heart complications than men. Blood sugar control during pregnancy is another critical focus, both for the health of the mother and the baby. Additionally, fluctuations in hormone levels throughout life – from monthly menstruation to menopause – can affect blood sugar levels and require thoughtful adjustments to medication and lifestyle. For example, Type 1 diabetics who use an insulin pump require an adjustment to their basal insulin rate while on their monthly cycle.
• For Men: Regular monitoring of testosterone levels and managing complications like erectile dysfunction are integral parts of comprehensive care. Men’s faster progression to complications necessitates vigilance in monitoring kidney and eye health.

Preventing Diabetes: A Path Forward

The good news is that diabetes is often preventable—or, at the very least, manageable with the right strategies. Here are some steps to consider:

• Embrace a balanced diet: Prioritize whole, unprocessed foods. Choose meals rich in fiber, lean protein, and healthy fats while minimizing refined sugars and carbohydrates.
• Maintain a healthy weight: Even a 5–10% weight loss can improve insulin sensitivity significantly.
• Stay active: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days of the week. Activities like walking, swimming, or yoga are excellent options.
• Manage stress: Stress hormones can elevate blood sugar levels. Consider mindfulness practices, journaling, or simply dedicating time to activities you enjoy.
• Regular screenings: Routine checks for blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels can help detect diabetes or prediabetes early.

Leveraging Technology to Support Your Care

More good news is that advancements in healthcare technology have made managing diabetes easier and more effective than ever. Some tools I recommend are:

• Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs): These devices provide real-time feedback on your blood sugar levels, allowing you to make informed decisions throughout the day.
• Insulin pumps: For those requiring insulin, these pumps offer a steady supply, reducing the need for multiple daily injections.
• Mobile apps: Many apps can track your blood sugar, activity, and meals, offering valuable insights to help you stay on track

These tools are not just convenient—they give you greater control and peace of mind in managing your health.

The Bottom Line

Diabetes is a complex condition with different symptoms and treatments for men and women, but with early detection, personalized care, and the right tools, you can live a vibrant and fulfilling life. If you have concerns about diabetes or its risk factors, I encourage you to bring them up during your next visit. Together, we can build a plan that prioritizes your health and empowers you to thrive.