Diabetes occurs when the pancreas - a gland situated behind the stomach - fails to produce sufficient insulin, the hormone that regulates blood sugar (glucose) levels. No-one knows exactly what causes the insulin failure. Some doctors believe it may be hereditary, others believe that a virus infection may be the original cause. There is also a prevailing view that poor diet may be its cause. It is, however, a serious illness and a major contributor to early death in Australia, and is having a devastating effect on our indigenous population.

When the body is unable to automatically regulate blood glucose levels it results in too much glucose in the blood. Glucose comes from foods that contain carbohydrate (starches and sugars); for example, breads and cereals, milk and dairy foods, fruits and some vegetables and travels in the blood stream to the muscles and other organs where it is used as fuel. The brain depends upon glucose for all of its functions, but is unable to store it. When there is excess glucose in the blood, it is detoured to the liver and stored for future use.

Insulin is the key that glucose needs to enter the body's cells so that it can be used as fuel. Diabetes develops when the pancreas stops producing insulin ( Type 1 diabetes ) or when the body does not respond properly to insulin ( Type 2 diabetes ). Insulin injections are necessary to treat Type 1 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes can usually be controlled in the first instance by regular exercise and diet. Tablets and eventually insulin injections may be needed as the disease progresses.

Over time, high blood glucose levels may damage blood vessels and nerves. These complications of diabetes can cause damage to eyes, nerves and kidneys and increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, impotence and foot problems. This damage can happen before an individual knows if they have diabetes if diabetes is undetected for a long time.

Symptoms of diabetes include:

  • Thirst
  • Frequent urination
  • Tiredness or lack of energy
  • Blurred vision
  • Infections (e.g.. Thrush)
  • Weight loss (in type 1 diabetes)

In Australia , one adult in twelve has diabetes and the prevalence is increasing. The symptoms of diabetes may not appear until blood glucose levels are high. It is common to have diabetes without knowing about it.

Links for further information about Diabetes

Highlights of Government Support for Diabetes 1999 - Groups with Special Needs: Indigenous people

Diabetes among Indigenous people

International Diabetes Institute

Diabetes Australia

Google search for Diabetes and Indigenous People