World Diabetes Day 2025: Doctors explain how to manage diabetes safely before it harms your heart, kidneys, and eyes

Diabetes is a silent killer. Doctors explain how it damages nearly every organ, why men and women face different risks, and the steps you must take to protect your heart. (Image: Pexels)

Diabetes is a condition where the body cannot control blood sugar properly, either because it doesn’t make enough insulin or cannot use it well. Common signs include feeling very thirsty, urinating often, feeling tired, blurred vision, and slow-healing cuts or wounds.

For many, diabetes conjures images of needles, sugar charts, and diet restrictions. Dr Kalyan Kumar Gangopadhyay, Endocrinologist, CMRI Kolkata, tells Moneycontrol, “Diabetes is often called a silent killer because it slowly damages the body’s vital systems, from the heart and kidneys to the eyes, nerves, and even sexual health.”

It’s a disease that doesn’t announce itself loudly. “Up to 80% of people may not notice any symptoms until serious complications appear.” One of the biggest myths, says Dr Gangopadhyay, is that diabetes only affects blood sugar levels, in truth, it impacts nearly every organ.

For women, the stakes can be higher for heart disease, bone weakness, and vision problems. Men, on the other hand, may face erectile dysfunction due to damage to blood vessels, nerves, and hormone imbalances. “But both genders share common risks of heart attacks, strokes, kidney issues, and nerve damage.” informs Dr Anjan Siotia, Director of Cardiology, BM Birla Heart Hospital, Kolkata. Dr Siotia tells Moneycontrol, “Diabetes affects the heart in more ways than most people realise. High blood sugar accelerates artery blockages and raises bad cholesterol (LDL), which significantly increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes.”

• Maintain a healthy weight – Avoid obesity to reduce strain on your heart and organs.
• Eat balanced meals – Prioritise vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
• Stay physically active – Regular walking or exercise improves circulation and heart health.
• Avoid smoking – Smoking worsens blood vessel damage and accelerates complications.
• Manage stress – High stress can spike blood sugar and blood pressure.
• Monitor sugar and blood pressure – Routine check-ups help catch problems early.
• Regular heart screening – Annual ECGs and timely blood tests detect early heart issues.

“Cold weather can worsen cardiovascular risks,” warns Dr Siotia adding, “During winter, arteries constrict and cortisol levels rise, forcing the heart to work harder, a dangerous combination for diabetics.”

Maintain a healthy diet, exercise regularly, avoid smoking, and manage stress levels.

Regular monitoring as per your doctor’s advice is crucial, usually several times a day for Type 1 diabetes and less frequently for Type 2.

While there is no cure, diabetes can be effectively managed with medication, lifestyle changes, and proper medical care.

Poorly managed diabetes can lead to serious complications such as heart disease, kidney damage, vision problems, and nerve damage.

Regular check-ups, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and adhering to prescribed treatments can help prevent complications.