Living Well This World Diabetes Day

Caring for your overall well-being is key to living well.

Diabetes affects nearly 10% of the world’s population, yet about half of all people living with the condition are undiagnosed.¹ November is Diabetes Awareness Month in the United States, with World Diabetes Day on November 14, offering an opportunity to spread awareness about this common yet life-changing disease. Diabetes, the leading cause of chronic kidney disease, not only impacts physical health but also takes a significant toll on mental well-being, highlighting the need for a holistic approach to managing the condition.

Managing diabetes and kidney disease can be complex, and both are considered 'silent' conditions. The early signs of kidney disease can be so subtle that you may lose up to 90% of kidney function before symptoms appear.² Early detection is essential; you can take action by understanding your risk of Type 2 diabetes and consulting with your treating physician.

Living Well with Diabetes and Kidney Disease

Managing diabetes, chronic kidney disease, or both goes beyond physical symptoms. These conditions can affect all aspects of life, so it’s important to prioritize your overall well-being and living well.

• Living well isn’t about simply managing blood sugar — it’s about taking a holistic approach to your care.
• Living well isn’t about perfection — it’s about making small, sustainable changes that improve your overall health and well-being.
• Living well isn’t about going it alone — it’s about relying on your support network of family, friends, healthcare providers, and colleagues for help.

Everyone needs support. A strong support network in addition to a care team is important for supporting both emotional and physical needs.

How Much Do You Know About Living Well with Diabetes and Diabetic Kidney Disease?

The statements provided are a generalization and do not constitute individual medical advice and they do not necessarily apply to everyone. You are advised to consult your physician before making any changes to your dietary plan or treatment-related behavior (if applicable).

Living Well at Fresenius Medical Care

Diabetes affects both physical and mental well-being — not only for those diagnosed but also for their loved ones. Hear from Fresenius Medical Care employees who have experienced chronic kidney disease and diabetes in their own lives. Their personal stories remind us about the importance of taking proactive steps to live well while managing chronic conditions.

Diabetes and chronic kidney disease touch lives in many ways.

Ann-Luise lives with Type 1 diabetes. Learning how to manage her condition required making changes in her diet and lifestyle, so she always makes time to de-stress by taking relaxing walks with family.

Alberto was diagnosed with kidney disease and diabetes at a young age. He then did dialysis treatments before receiving a kidney transplant. Today, he shares his story with other patients because for him, education was key.

“Not knowing anything about diabetes and how it affects my lifestyle in the long run, it took a little bit of adjusting. I adjusted my foods. I adjusted my daily living. I learned, and I took it day by day and just lived as normal a lifestyle as I could. Get the education I tell patients. Educate yourself on your body, because we're all different.” – Alberto Lopez Sandoval, Patient Consultant

Walter cares for his mother-in-law with kidney failure and his father-in-law with diabetes. Although juggling work, his personal life, and caregiving can be difficult, Walter finds that spending quality time with loved ones is rewarding.

Seven is a caregiver for her father who has diabetes. She supports his daily care and helps him keep up with his diet, treatments, medicines, and appointments. To help ease the stress of caregiving, she relies on her friends to keep her motivated.

“I feel supported when talking with my friends and my colleagues, which makes me feel motivated and makes me keep going.”– Seven Chen, HR Manager

Whether you’re managing diabetes, diabetic kidney disease, caring for a loved one, or simply learning more, it’s important to look at the big picture. Living well is a continuous journey of caring for your whole health — one step at a time.