(NC)—Despite all the information available about type 2 diabetes, several misconceptions still exist about the causes, severity and management of this chronic disease that affects one in 15 Canadians. In fact, a recent national survey conducted by PSL Research Canada revealed that two in three (65 per cent) survey respondents were "somewhat/not very or not at all knowledgeable" about their disease.

Below are some of the more common myths about type 2 diabetes and tips that can help you to effectively manage your disease.

Myth 1: Type 2 diabetes is nothing to worry about

Reality: There is a misconception that type 2 diabetes is a mild form of diabetes compared to type 1 diabetes. According to Diabetes Québec, type 2 diabetes is a serious disease that can lead to severe complications like amputation, loss of vision and cardiovascular diseases.

What you can do: Monitor your blood sugar levels regularly as recommended by your physician. The Canadian Diabetes Association (CDA) recommends keeping your HbA1c level, or average blood glucose level over two to three months, at 7 per cent or less. It's when blood sugar exceeds this target that one runs the risk of related complications.

Myth 2: Too much sugar causes type 2 diabetes

Reality: While eating too much sugar can lead to weight gain, which increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, the causes of type 2 diabetes are not exactly known – but not enough insulin is being produced for a person's needs. The disease has a strong genetic link, meaning that it tends to run in families. Risk factors for developing type 2 diabetes include the following:

• Age or advancing age

• Being a member of a high-risk group (Aboriginal, Hispanic, Asian, South Asian or African descent)

• Being overweight or obese (especially if you carry most of your weight around the middle)

• And having:

- A parent, brother or sister with diabetes

- Given birth to a baby that weighed more than 4 kg (9 lb)

- Had gestational diabetes (diabetes during pregnancy)

- Higher than normal blood sugar but not high enough to qualify as diabetes

- High blood pressure

- High cholesterol or other fats in the blood

What you can do: If you are aged 40 or over, you should be tested at least every three years. If any of the other above mentioned risk factors applies to you, you should be tested earlier and/or more often. You can also refer to the CDA Web site for tips on healthy eating and how to avoid eating excess sugar at www.diabetes.ca/Section_ About/nutritionindex.asp.

Myth 3: Diabetes can be cured

Reality: There is currently no cure for diabetes. The good news is that it can be controlled through proper treatment and self care. Keeping your blood sugar level under control can help prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes related complications.

What you can do: Stay as informed as possible about the management of type 2 diabetes and get medical support. Try to take a course on diabetes. There are many classes of oral medications available as well as insulin to lower blood sugar. Your physician will know which class of medication is best suited for you.

If you live with type 2 diabetes, report any changes observed such as unusual fatigue, weight gain or foot problems. Through open discussion with your diabetes team, you can find the right approach to help you lead a healthy life.

Credit: www.newscanada.com