Rising temperatures and air pollution exacerbate diabetes challenges
(The Post News)- Diabetes is a leading cause of death in South Africa, and climate change is making management of the condition increasingly challenging.
Extreme weather events, air pollution, and shifting disease patterns are complicating life for those living with diabetes.
Research suggests that extreme heat, heavy floods, and air pollution will make dealing with diabetes harder and more common.
Public health systems are under pressure, and the world is struggling to care for people with diabetes.
Rising temperatures affect people’s health, and individuals with diabetes struggle to regulate their body temperature.
Overheating can aggravate blood sugar control, leading to dehydration or heat stroke, which can harm vital organs without treatment.
Air pollution from burning fossil fuels increases the risk of contracting diabetes and exacerbates existing conditions.
Climate-related disasters disrupt healthcare, causing missed treatments and increasing the spread of diseases like TB, which is a leading cause of death in South Africa.
Urgent regional, national, and global efforts are needed to combat climate change, reduce pollution, and address diabetes.
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