In the last 30 years, the number of adults with diabetes has tripled in the Americas. By 2050, the cases in the region are expected to increase by 180%.
By Rocio Sanchez & Guillermo Gabriel Barrenechea (Latinoamerica21)
HAVANA TIMES – In the last 30 years, the number of adults with diabetes has tripled in the Americas, according to the Pan American Health Organization. The projections of this organization are shocking: it is expected that by 2050 the cases of diabetes in the region will increase by 180%.
In Argentina, the figures also reveal a tough battle against obesity and diabetes, with the province of Tucumán as one of the epicenters of this health crisis. According to the National Survey of Risk Factors, the prevalence of obesity and diabetes has been increasing and in Tucumán alone, 27% of adults perceive themselves to be obese, and 13% report high blood sugar levels. However, recently, several studies in this Argentine province have shown that the onset of diabetes mellitus 2 can be delayed or prevented in overweight people with impaired glucose tolerance, or prediabetes.
How can this be achieved? The answer lies in two variables: physical activity and healthy eating, which are the real protagonists in the prevention of diabetes.
Argentina: a public health problem
More than 40,000 citizens in Tucumán affected by diabetes seek assistance in free public programs of Integral Care of Obesity and detection, prevention, and treatment of diabetes mellitus. These programs promote physical ac
