Bernama:

It is estimated that one out of eight Malaysians aged 30 years and above has diabetes, which amounts to over 1.6 million adults, based on the Third National Health and Morbidity Survey 2006.

Director-General of Health Tan Sri Dr Mohd Ismail Merican said the prevalence of diabetes also showed a drastic increase of 80 per cent over a period of just 10 years, from 8.3 per cent in 1996 to 14.9 per cent in 2006 for the same age group.

Even more worrying, he said, was that one third of those who had diabetes were undiagnosed, and were not aware of their condition.

This was very dangerous because if not detected early they would face serious complications later.

Dr Mohd Ismail urged those 30 years and above to undergo screening to ensure that they do not have the disease, and if they do, to start on the medication to avoid worse complications.

He also urged those bodies involved in diabetes such as the National Diabetes Institute (Nadi), Malaysian Diabetes Association (PDM) and Malaysian Endocrine and Metabolic Society (MEMS) to work together to create awareness among the people about the disease.

On the guidelines, he said they were developed to provide a clear and concise approach to all health care providers on the current practice in the management of such type of diabetes.

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