According to Dr. Nguyen Quang Bay - Head of the Department of Endocrinology - Diabetes, Bach Mai Hospital, diabetes is no longer considered a disease that only needs blood sugar control. The number of people with the disease is increasing along with the risk of chronic complications. Modern treatment trends aim for comprehensive management, protecting target organs such as kidneys, eyes and cardiovascular system, contributing to prolonging life expectancy as well as improving the quality of life of patients.
Dr. Nguyen Quang Bay warned that what is worrying is not only high blood sugar but also small blood vessel complications. Among them, diabetes-induced kidney disease is the leading cause of end-stage kidney failure, while diabetic retinopathy is a common cause of vision loss and blindness in people of working age.
If previously the main treatment goal was to focus on controlling HbA1c and blood sugar levels, now it is necessary to aim to protect the heart, kidneys, and eyes, while putting the patient at the center. Early detection of complications and coordination with many specialties will help improve long-term treatment effectiveness.
In addition, many diabetic patients have to use many drugs at the same time to control the disease and accompanying diseases, increasing the risk of drug interactions.
Referring to kidney complications, Dr. Nguyen Quang Bay said that about 40% of people with type 2 diabetes have chronic kidney disease. Currently, diabetes and high blood pressure are still the two leading causes of end-stage kidney failure globally.
Prolonged hyperglycemia can cause retinal damage, leading to macular edema and vision loss if not detected and treated promptly.
Diabetes management needs to be implemented according to a multi-specialized model with coordination between Endocrinology, Nephrology, Cardiology, Ophthalmology and Clinical Pharmacy. Early detection of complications, effective blood sugar control, updating treatment advances and individualizing protocols will contribute to preserving the function of target organs, reducing the risk of disability, prolonging healthy life and improving the quality of life for patients.
