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Diabetes Mythbusting
Millions of people are living with diabetes worldwide, approximately 90% of whom suffer from type 2 diabetes. Despite its prevalence, many myths still persist. At Novo Nordisk, we’re committed to improving awareness and treatment for everyone at risk of diabetes across the globe.
Myth #1
Blood sugar is the only important factor when it comes to managing diabetes.
It’s also important to manage weight, diet and exercise.
Myth #2
Type 2 diabetes can be cured with lifestyle therapy alone.
As a progressive disease, medication is often required.
Myth #3
Treatments for type 2 diabetes only target blood sugar.
Some treatments also address risk like heart disease.
Myth #4
People with type 2 diabetes are at higher risk of cardiovascular disease.
8 in 10 people with type 2 diabetes face higher risk.
Myth #5
Insulin therapy is the only viable option for type 2 diabetics.
Insulin is just one of many types of diabetes treatments.
Myth #6
The human body has a naturally occurring hormone called GLP-1 that helps manage blood sugar and regulate appetite.
GLP-1 is produced in the intestine and brainstem.
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Blood sugar is the only important factor when it comes to managing diabetes.
Correct
While blood sugar is a key part of diabetes management, there are a number of risk factors that influence your long-term health, including weight, diet, and exercise. Staying in control help reduce your risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes.
Learn more about monitoring blood sugar
Type 2 diabetes can be cured with lifestyle therapy alone.
Correct
Type 2 diabetes is a progressive disease, meaning your condition will evolve over time. And faster if left untreated. While diet and exercise can help stabilise your condition, at some stage, diabetes will require prescribed medication to help balance your metabolism and blood sugar.
Learn more about balancing lifestyle factors and medication
Treatments for type 2 diabetes only target blood sugar.
Correct
Balancing blood glucose is important as type 2 diabetes impairs the body's natural ability to produce insulin. However, treatments should also address heightened risk factors like cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death for people with type 2 diabetes.
Learn more about diabetes and heart disease
People with type 2 diabetes are at higher risk of cardiovascular disease.
Correct
People living with type 2 diabetes face higher risk of cardiovascular disease, even if symptoms aren't apparent. Ask your doctor about glucose-lowering, cardio-protective treatment options.
Learn more about cardiovascular risk
Insulin therapy is the only viable option for type 2 diabetics.
Correct
There are several non-insulin diabetes treatments available, such as Metformin, Sulfonylureas, SGLT-2 inhibitors, and GLP-1 receptor agonists. As diabetes progresses, it may be necessary to start on one treatment or a combination of two or more.
Learn more about non-insulin treatment options
The human body has a naturally occurring hormone called GLP-1 that helps manage blood sugar and regulate appetite.
Correct
GLP-1, or glucagon-like peptide-1, helps your body release its own insulin and is designed to respond when your blood sugar rises. It also slows down food leaving your stomach and helps reduce the amount of sugar released from your liver.
Learn more about GLP-1 and how it works