Why is diabetes so widespread in Georgia?

In Georgia, as in other countries, there are several diseases that are most common among the population. The most prevalent diseases are often linked to lifestyle, diet, and access to healthcare. 

These include: Diabetes, especially type 2 diabetes.

Why is diabetes so widespread in Georgia?

1. Dietary traditions:
   • Georgian cuisine is rich in carbohydrates and fats: bread, khachapuri, lobiani, and sweets.
   • High alcohol consumption, especially wine, which also raises blood sugar levels.
   • Low intake of fresh vegetables and whole grains.
2. Sedentary lifestyle:
   • In cities, particularly in Tbilisi, many people lead sedentary lives, contributing to weight gain and reduced insulin sensitivity.
3. Obesity:
   • Medical studies show a growing number of overweight individuals in Georgia. This is one of the key risk factors for developing diabetes.
4. Lack of prevention and education:
   • Limited access to information about healthy eating and diabetes prevention.
   • Few people have the habit of undergoing regular medical checkups.
5. Genetic predisposition:
   • Diabetes is common in Georgian families, increasing the likelihood of inheriting the condition.
6. Chronic stress and social factors:
   • Economic hardships and high levels of stress and anxiety among the population.
   • Stress affects hormonal balance, raising the risk of diabetes.
7. Limited access to medical care in rural areas:
   • In villages, diabetes diagnosis and treatment are often challenging due to a lack of specialists and equipment.
8. Low level of physical activity in traditional culture:
   • Historically, sports and physical activity have not been a significant part of adult life in Georgian culture.
9. Growing urbanization:
   • With urban expansion, fast food and high-sugar products have become more accessible.

How does this impact the nation’s health?

These factors contribute to the rising incidence of diabetes in Georgia, leading to an increase in complications, a lower quality of life, and higher healthcare costs.

Diabetes complications:

Without proper control, diabetes can lead to:

• Vascular damage (heart attacks, strokes).
• Vision loss (diabetic retinopathy).
• Kidney disease (nephropathy).
• Poor wound healing (diabetic foot).

How to prevent diabetes?

1. Healthy eating:
   • Increase fiber intake (vegetables, low-GI fruits, whole grains).
   • Avoid simple carbohydrates (sweets, white bread, pastries, potatoes).
   • Consume protein and healthy fats (fish, nuts, avocado, olive oil).
   • Control portion sizes to avoid overeating.
2. Physical activity:
   • Regular aerobic exercise (walking, running, swimming) for at least 150 minutes a week.
   • Strength training to improve insulin sensitivity.
3. Weight management:
   • Losing just 5-10% of body weight can significantly reduce the risk of diabetes.
4. Regular checkups:
   • Monitor blood sugar levels and HbA1c, especially if you have risk factors.
   • Check blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
5. Avoid harmful habits:
   • Limit alcohol consumption.
   • Quit smoking entirely.
6. Stress management:
   • Practice yoga, meditation, or seek psychological support.
7. Education and awareness:
   • Learn to read food labels.
   • Attend workshops or consultations with dietitians or doctors.