People Living 40–50 Years With Diabetes: Says Diabetologist Dr Sachin Gupta

Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): Dr Sachin Gupta, a diabetologist, says that people are now living 40 to 50 years of their life with diabetes, as the condition is being diagnosed much earlier, often between the ages of 20 and 30.

He said that early diagnosis, consistent adherence to treatment plans—including medication, diet, and exercise—and regular monitoring are essential to effectively control the disease.

Free Press spoke to Dr Gupta on various issues related to diabetes and ways to prevent it.

People are being diagnosed with diabetes at an early age - between 20 and 30 years. What is the reason?

The well-known proverb “Early to bed, early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise” has lost its relevance in today’s lifestyle. Even children now stay awake past midnight, watching television or being glued to their mobile phones.

The principle behind the proverb—that maintaining a regular sleep schedule by going to bed early and waking up early—can improve both physical and mental health. But this practice is no longer being followed, contributing to early onset of lifestyle-related diseases like diabetes.

There is a public misconception that medicines cause complications, so some people try to manage diabetes through exercise alone. What is your view?

During the pre-diabetes stage, which typically lasts two to three years, people may be able to manage their blood sugar levels through exercise and lifestyle changes. However, as the condition progresses, medication becomes necessary to maintain control. Avoiding medicines can lead to serious microvascular complications.

One such complication is diabetic retinopathy, which results from damage to the small blood vessels in the retina and can lead to vision loss or blindness. Another is diabetic nephropathy, caused by damage to the kidney’s small blood vessels, which can result in kidney failure. So, depending solely on exercise without medical supervision can be harmful in the long term.

DNA therapy is being explored as a new approach to diabetes treatment. Is it practically viable at this stage?

At the current stage, DNA therapy is not practically viable. The most effective and realistic method of controlling diabetes is through lifestyle regulation combined with appropriate medication. A balanced diet and regular physical activity play a key role in diabetes management. Fast food items like burgers, pizzas, and momos, which were once occasional treats, have now become a regular part of many people’s diets, further worsening the problem.

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What are the basic causes behind the rising number of diabetes cases?

One major reason is the growing urbanisation that has led to the disappearance of open spaces and playgrounds in cities. Children are being sent to coaching classes at a very young age, even in primary school, as parents prioritize preparation for competitive exams over physical activity. As a result, children have little to no involvement in sports, yoga, or exercise, which are essential for a healthy lifestyle.

Moreover, increasing prevalence of night shifts and corporate work culture among young adults has led to late-night working hours, which in turn cause stress and disrupt daily routines. This chronic stress and unhealthy lifestyle contribute significantly to the rise in diabetes among the younger population.

Many people consume protein supplements in large amounts after gym workouts. Is it advisable?

Consuming protein without proper medical guidance is risky. People often take protein supplements without knowing the contents, and many of these products may contain hidden steroids, which can lead to serious health complications. Therefore, it is essential to consult a qualified doctor before deciding on the type and dosage of protein supplements to be taken. Unsupervised intake can do more harm than good.