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The number of people with diabetes in Hong Kong has increased dramatically over the past 10 years. |
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One in 10 people have diabetes and only 50% are diagnosed. |
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Diabetes reduces life expectancy by 10-12 years and is a leading cause of stroke, blindness, heart attack, kidney failure, amputation and impotence. |
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Approximately 50% of patients suffering from a heart attack, stroke or kidney failure have diabetes as the main cause. |
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Despite the highly preventable nature of these life-threatening complications, they are often silent and insidious. |
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Many patients only become aware of their serious nature when they are struck by these devastating illnesses. |
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To detect these complications or their risk factors early, all patients with diabetes are advised to undergo comprehensive assessments every 12-18 months. |
