Early signs of diabetes and how to prevent it

Diabetes is a common and frequently occurring disease, now ranked as the second leading killer among modern illnesses, with its harm to the human body second only to cancer.

The number of people living with diabetes rose from 200 million in 1990 to 830 million in 2022, according to the World Health Organization. Prevalence has been rising more rapidly in low- and middle-income countries than in high-income countries.

Diabetes can affect individuals at all stages of life, necessitating a life-cycle approach to advance diabetes prevention, disease management and overall health promotion.

November 14 is World Diabetes Day. This year's theme focuses on diabetes and well-being, paying special attention to the health challenges faced by the working population.

In June 2025, data from the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention revealed that the number of diabetes patients in China had reached 233 million in 2023, accounting for a quarter of the global diabetic population. This translates to roughly one in every six individuals being affected. Compared to 2005, the number of diabetes patients has surged by 163 percent.

Diabetes often leads to various complications. Statistics indicate that approximately 70 percent to 80 percent of diabetic patients in China die from complications. The disease affects multiple organs throughout the body, severely threatening patients' quality of life.

According to Li Ruqiang, chief physician of the Endocrinology Department at Beijing Friendship Hospital, the early clinical manifestations of diabetes are not typical.

However, some signs can be detected. "These include increased thirst, increased hunger, increased urination and weight loss. Other symptoms may include fatigue, blurred vision or skin infections that are slow to heal and may leave pigmentation after recovery. Some individuals may experience delayed meal times, leading to hunger, palpitations and cold sweats," Li said.

Li also noted that if any of these symptoms appear, it is likely that blood sugar levels are already problematic. It is crucial to undergo blood glucose testing and seek medical attention promptly if issues are detected.

However, there are exceptions. Some people with very high blood sugar may not exhibit any symptoms. Nevertheless, prolonged exposure to high blood glucose can gradually lead to the development of complications.

To address common issues among working people, such as sedentary behavior, irregular eating habits and insufficient sleep, experts recommend adopting scientific exercise, a balanced diet and adequate sleep to improve insulin resistance and reduce the risk of metabolic diseases like diabetes.

Mu Yiming, president of the Chinese Medical Doctor Association Endocrinology and Metabolism Branch, advises office workers to stand up and move for 10 to 15 minutes after every hour of work. 

"Activities such as handgrip exercises or leg movements can help improve insulin resistance. Moreover, maintaining regular and balanced meals with stable portion sizes across three daily meals, along with drinking at least 1,500 to 2,000 milliliters of water per day, can also enhance insulin sensitivity," said Mu.