As the world observes World Diabetes Day, new data from the ICMR reveals that India now has over 100 million diabetes patients. The worrying part is that a majority of people do not recognize the early signs of the disease. By the time diabetes is detected, the condition has often already progressed. To help people understand why diabetes occurs, what types exist, and how to catch the early symptoms, we spoke with Professor Dr. Nikhil Tandon, Head of Endocrinology and Metabolism at AIIMS, Delhi.

Most patients don’t recognize the symptoms
According to Dr. Nikhil, many people remain unaware of diabetes symptoms until they undergo tests for unrelated health issues. Often, diabetes is detected by chance rather than due to visible warning signs.

Two major types of diabetes
Dr. Nikhil explains that diabetes mainly occurs in two forms: Type 1 and Type 2.

• Type 1 diabetes is genetic. It occurs when the body stops producing insulin. This form is commonly diagnosed in children and young adults, though it can appear at any age. Patients require daily insulin.
• Type 2 diabetes is far more common and occurs when the body cannot use insulin properly. Unhealthy eating habits, obesity, lack of exercise, and family history increase the risk.

Younger people increasingly affected
A concerning trend, Dr. Nikhil points out, is that Type 2 diabetes—once seen mostly in people above 50—is now appearing in individuals as young as 15 to 20. Poor food habits, sedentary lifestyles, and stress are primary contributors. Diabetes cannot be cured, but with regular exercise, mindful eating, and stress control, it can be effectively managed.

Early symptoms your body shows
Dr. Nikhil highlights several early signs that may indicate the onset of diabetes:

Excessive hunger
The body converts food into glucose for energy. But without proper insulin production or insulin response, glucose cannot enter the cells. This lack of energy triggers increased hunger.

Frequent urination
While a healthy person urinates around 4–7 times a day, diabetes can significantly increase this frequency. When blood sugar is high, the kidneys cannot reabsorb all the glucose, leading to increased urine production.

Dry mouth
As the body loses fluids through frequent urination, dehydration follows. This causes dry mouth and reduced moisture in the body.

Itchy or dry skin
Dehydration also affects the skin, making it dry and itchy.

Blurred vision
Fluctuating fluids in the body can cause the lenses in the eyes to swell, affecting focus and leading to blurry vision.

Dr. Nikhil notes that not everyone will experience all these symptoms. Even a few of them may indicate rising blood sugar, and medical consultation is strongly advised.

How to reduce the risk of diabetes
Lifestyle changes remain the most effective way to prevent Type 2 diabetes. This is especially important for people at higher risk, such as those who are overweight, have high cholesterol, or have a family history of diabetes.

If you have prediabetes—elevated blood sugar levels but not yet diabetes—these steps can help delay or prevent the condition:

• Maintain a healthy weight
• Exercise daily
• Follow a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables
• Reduce stress
• Get enough sleep

Small, consistent lifestyle changes today can prevent serious diabetes-related complications tomorrow.