Diabetes Week (July 12-18) is a timely reminder that while more than 1.5 million Australians live with diabetes, many misconceptions about the condition still exist.
Those misconceptions range from outdated stereotypes to assumptions about what causes diabetes, and awareness advocates say greater understanding and compassion can make a big difference to the lives of those managing the condition every day.
For Sunshine Coast resident Leanne Casey-Jones, who has lived with Type 1 diabetes for 43 years, awareness has come a long way since she was diagnosed at just 12 years old.
“There was no social media, no diabetes camps and no peer support,” she says. “Many people kept their diagnosis hidden.”
Today, advances in technology such as continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) and insulin pumps have transformed diabetes management.
But Leanne says one of the biggest misconceptions still exists: that diabetes is simply caused by eating too much sugar.
“All types of diabetes are not the same,” she says. “Type 1 is very different to Type 2.”
Ross Hawthorn’s experience also highlights the complexity of the condition. Diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes as a teenager, he achieved remission through healthy eating and exercise.
Years later, routine blood tests revealed dangerously high blood glucose levels. After being admitted to hospital, he was diagnosed with latent autoimmune diabetes in adults: a form of Type 1 diabetes.
He now manages his diabetes with an insulin pump and CGM.
His advice to anyone newly diagnosed is to take things one step at a time.
“Don’t try to change everything at once,” he says. “Try not to stress too much.”
For Lorraine Flood, who has lived with Type 2 diabetes for about 20 years, learning to adapt her lifestyle has been essential. Regular walking, changes to her diet and wearing a CGM have helped her better manage her condition.
“It’s not easy when you have to completely change your lifestyle,” she says.
“But you really do have to be strict with yourself.”
Lorraine says diabetes affects far more than blood glucose levels.
The condition can take a significant emotional toll.
She believes more people need to understand that diabetes is influenced by many factors, including genetics, stress and lifestyle – not simply sugar consumption.
The three stories share a common theme: living with diabetes requires constant decision making, ongoing support and access to knowledgeable healthcare professionals.
Diabetes Complete Care nurse practitioner Rene Hinton says Diabetes Week is an important opportunity to increase public understanding and reduce stigma surrounding the condition.
“Diabetes Week reminds us to build understanding, challenge stigma and support the millions of people living with diabetes,” she says.
“A little empathy and awareness can make a big difference in helping people manage their condition with confidence.”
