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A level below 140 mg/dL is generally considered normal, while a reading of 200 mg/dL or above may indicate diabetes and requires medical evaluation. World Health Organization recommends maintaining a healthy body weight, regular physical activity and avoiding tobacco use to prevent or delay type 2 diabetes. Because many people remain undiagnosed for years, “Diabetes is often called a silent disease.
NFHS-6 classifies a random blood sugar level of 141-160 mg/dL as “high” and above 160 mg/dL as “very high”. We are also seeing diabetes being detected at younger ages than before,” said Dr Avivar Awasthi, endocrinologist at Ram Manohar Lohia Institute of Medical Sciences (RMLIMS). Regular screening and early intervention are critical,” said Prof KK Sawlani of King George’s Medical University. Prof Kausar Usman of KGMU said lifestyle changes remain one of the most effective ways to reduce the disease burden. Prevention is far more effective and affordable than treating complications later,” he said.
By the time symptoms appear, complications may already have developed. Experts warned that uncontrolled diabetes can damage eyes, kidneys, nerves and blood vessels and increase risk of heart disease and stroke. “Urbanisation changed eating habits and daily routines. People need to focus on balanced diets, physical activity, adequate sleep and routine health check-ups. It also emphasises early diagnosis, regular blood sugar monitoring and timely screening for complications.
Doctors advise at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity a week, limiting foods high in sugar, unhealthy fats and excessive processing, and undergoing regular blood sugar screening, especially for people with risk factors or a family history of diabetes. Those diagnosed with diabetes should continue treatment as prescribed and avoid changing medication without medical advice.