Diabetes is a disease in which the blood contains too much sugar, and, according to the International Diabetes Foundation, Singapore has the second-highest proportion of diabetics among developed nations. This is a worrying statistic, given that diabetes can lead to coronary heart disease, stroke, and some types of cancer.
In order to know how to safeguard against the disease, one must consider the risk factors. The first is genetics. If a close relative, such as a parent or sibling, has diabetes, there is a higher chance of developing it. Ethnicity is also a factor; for instance, those of Chinese or South Asian descent are more likely to get diabetes. Next is weight: Individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher are more at risk. Lastly, age affects the likelihood of getting diabetes; the older one gets and the less one exercises, the more weight one puts on.
While the first two factors can’t be changed, the other two can be controlled by making lifestyle adjustments that lead to weight loss, such as adopting healthier eating habits and exercising regularly. However, in cases of severe obesity, surgery may be required in order to reduce the size of the stomach.
In such instances, procedures such as intragastric balloon may be considered. In this new, non-surgical and reversible option, a silicone balloon is temporarily inserted into the stomach via the mouth. It induces a feeling of fullness and may lead to short-term weight loss. The balloon is removed after six to eight months.
Surgical intervention is said to be able to help the severely obese in weight loss over a long period of time. Consult Dr Ganesh Ramalingam to discuss what’s right for you.
For more information, visit Dr Ganesh Ramalingam at G&L Surgical @Pan Asia Surgery #10-43/44 Mount Elizabeth Novena Specialist Centre, 38 Irrawaddy Road.