Glucose Intolerance Syndrome Day November 14

Move over diabetes; we are giving you a new makeover; today is World Glucose Intolerance day.

Why is it necessary to rename everything Diabetes related?

Because of one single reason, Nosophobia is an intense, persistent fear of getting sick. 

Many people experience anxiety about their health; most cannot control their fear. They're often afraid of developing a specific disease or condition, such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer, or sexually transmitted infections (STIs). 

Nosophobia related to diabetes has been developed due to news stories about particular diabetes and the association of diabetes with morbidity and mortality. This causes people to engage in avoidance behaviours, such as refusing to go for a routine medical check-up. They might also feel highly distressed when they receive the news that they could have diabetes. 

They then enter a phase of denial because, in the early stages, diabetes has no symptoms. 

That is why we need to change the terminology associated with diabetes to glucose intolerance syndrome. 

First, it does not give the impression of a terminal chronic disease. 

Second, it tones down the gravity of the disease, encouraging health check-ups. 

Third, the name Glucose Intolerance highlights the root cause of the condition, thus constantly reminding the individual to keep off all dietary sources of glucose. 

Fourth, using "diabetic" to describe someone with diabetes implies that people with diabetes are abnormal, which can be stigmatising. Glucose intolerant sounds more normal. 

So today, on World's Glucose Intolerance Syndrome day, let us celebrate our uniqueness and celebrate over a juicy steak with salad.

Have a Happy World Glucose Intolerance Day