Dr Annabel Fountain On Diabetes & Heart Disease
“People with diabetes are two to four times more likely than others to develop cardiovascular disease with increased risk in older age,” Dr. Annabel Fountain said.
A spokesperson said, “February is American Heart Month, a time to refocus on your cardiovascular health. Dr. Annabel Fountain, of Fountain Health, is recognizing American Heart Month by highlighting the link between diabetes and heart disease.
“The prevalence of diabetes is on the rise worldwide, expected to affect more than 640 million people by 2040. Global prevalence in adults is estimated at 8.8 %. In Bermuda, the incidence of diabetes is 14%.
“The Ministry of Health considers the current rate of diabetes and obesity a public health crisis. The Steps to a Well Bermuda study [2014] showed that 3/4 of Bermudians [74%] is overweight or obese.
“It also showed that one in three adults in Bermuda [35%] have chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease and kidney disease. Further, 18% of adults aged 60 years and older had diabetes.
“People with diabetes are two to four times more likely than others to develop cardiovascular disease with increased risk in older age. Heart disease remains the most common cause of death in people with diabetes.
“Chronically elevated blood sugar levels in diabetes causes inflammation and over time can cause significant damage to organs, such as the heart, brain, kidneys, eyes, and nerves. The good news is that it doesn’t have to go that way.”
Dr. Annabel Fountain, Medical Director at Fountain Health says: “Type 2 diabetes can be managed effectively and even reversed through adjustment in nutrition and increasing physical activity. “In Bermuda, where the prevalence of people living with diabetes is quite alarming, it’s imperative that we all understand that uncontrolled diabetes will most likely lead to heart problems.
“We all know to go the emergency room if we have bad chest pain with shortness of breath but other symptoms of heart disease can seem unconnected, like cramps in your legs when you’re walking, swollen ankles or erectile dysfunction. Reporting any changes in your health and/or wellbeing to your doctor will help them to identify issues before they become more serious.
“Your annual diabetes review should include assessments for potential complications of diabetes.
The spokesperson said, “Electrocardiograms [ECGs], cholesterol and blood pressure checks significantly help in the early diagnosis and management of heart disease.”
“Some medications originally developed for diabetes also help with reducing cardiovascular risk and can be used to improve outcomes in people with heart failure, high blood pressure and kidney disease. Ask your doctor if your medications include these options, especially if you are already known to have heart disease,” says Dr Fountain.
The spokesperson said, “Dr. Fountain completed her specialist training in the UK in 2010. She is certified in Endocrinology, Diabetes and Internal Medicine and provides care to people with a range of health conditions and disorders related to hormones, including diabetes. Dr. Fountain diagnoses, treats and manages chronic diseases like diabetes.
“Visit fountainhealth.bm for more information about diabetes and treatment, education, and support of the condition.”
Read More About
Category: All
