BY NATHANIEL LODOVICE/DSSC Intern
DIABETES is rapidly becoming a public health concern in Davao, with alarming statistics showing an increase in both the number of diagnosed cases and the age of onset.
According to the International Diabetes Federation, about 4.7 million Filipinos are currently living with diabetes, and this number is expected to climb to 7.5 million by 2045.
The rise is largely attributed to unhealthy lifestyles, including poor diets high in processed foods and sugary drinks, as well as a lack of physical activity.
At the Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC), the diabetes burden is becoming increasingly evident.
Dr. Jenny Pareñas, an endocrinologist at SPMC, reported that approximately 100 patients are seen daily at the hospital’s outpatient department.
However, many of these individuals are diagnosed too late—often only after severe complications, such as kidney failure, heart disease, or vision loss, have already taken root.
“The problem is that many patients don’t experience symptoms until the damage is already done,” says Dr. Pareñas. “By the time they come to us, they often have irreversible complications.
“While diabetes has traditionally been associated with older adults, younger generations in Davao are increasingly affected. Dr. Pareñas noted that more people under the age of 20 are being diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes, primarily due to lifestyle factors such as a sedentary lifestyle, poor eating habits, and family history.
“Today’s young people, especially those who aren’t active for physical activity and often rely on fast food are prone to diabetes,” explained Dr. Pareñas. “This combination of factors, along with genetics, is contributing to the rise of diabetes in younger people.”
In response to this growing issue, SPMC has ramped up efforts to educate the public. They recently held a Diabetes Awareness Celebration to encourage people to get screened and take proactive steps toward their health.
“We want people to understand that diabetes doesn’t just happen overnight—it’s the result of lifestyle choices and can be managed with the right interventions,” Dr. Pareñas added.
Despite the challenges, she emphasized that diabetes is manageable. With proper diet, regular exercise, and medications, many people can live a long, healthy life.
“It’s not like the end of the world,” said Dr. Pareñas. “With awareness and discipline, diabetes can be controlled.”
However, the urgency remains. Late diagnosis and complications continue to claim lives, with diabetes-related deaths accounting for over 50% of mortality at SPMC.
She advised people with a family history of diabetes or those already living with the disease to undergo regular check-ups and conscious lifestyle changes. Early detection is critical in preventing the long-term complications that come with unmanaged diabetes.
