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Type 2 diabetes (T2D) impacts millions of people worldwide.i In Canada alone, more than four million people are living with diabetes, and the number continues to grow.ii
T2D is a complex chronic disease that can affect multiple organs and systems throughout the body.iii While it affects blood sugar, it is closely connected to other serious health conditions, including cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease, obesity, and liver disease.iv
Many people are surprised to learn that type 2 diabetes is often linked to a range of health complications that can develop over time — sometimes without obvious symptoms or being noticed until later.v
“People often focus on managing blood sugar levels alone, which is an important part of diabetes care,” says Dr. Harpreet Bajaj, Associate Endocrinologist, LMC Healthcare. “But type 2 diabetes impacts much more than glucose. It can affect the heart, kidneys, liver, and overall metabolic health. Understanding the bigger picture can help people take a more proactive approach to their health.”
Understanding the Risks Beyond Diabetes
One of the most significant but underrecognized complications associated with T2D is chronic kidney disease (CKD).vi Approximately one in three people living with diabetes also has CKD, yet many are unaware of the connection.vii Because kidney disease often develops silently, symptoms may not appear initially.viii
Cardiovascular disease is another concern. Adults living with T2D are significantly more likely to experience heart disease or stroke than those without diabetes.ix High blood sugar can damage blood vessels over time, while other factors commonly associated with T2D, such as high blood pressure, obesity, and elevated cholesterol, can further increase cardiovascular risk.x
Obesity and T2D are also closely interconnected.xi More than 80 per cent of people living with T2D also live with overweight or obesity.xii Excess body weight can contribute to insulin resistance, making it more difficult for the body to regulate blood sugar effectively.xiii At the same time, obesity can increase the risk of additional complications affecting the heart, kidneys, and liver.xiv
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Increasingly, researchers are also recognizing the link between T2D and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), an advanced form of fatty liver disease.xv Many people with T2D may be at risk without knowing it, as liver disease frequently develops without noticeable symptoms in its early stages.xvi
Small Conversations Can Lead to Meaningful Action
The good news is that early awareness and timely intervention can make a meaningful difference.
“Diabetes is a complex condition that can affect many aspects of a person’s health and daily life. Better care starts with understanding that reality and creating space for people to ask questions and talk openly with their healthcare providers,” says Shusmita Rashid Executive Director, Change the Conversation. “More informed, empathetic and supportive conversations can help people feel understood and supported in managing their health.”
With appropriate management, regular monitoring, and support from a healthcare team which may include your primary care doctor, nurse practitioner or pharmacist, people living with T2D can take steps to reduce their risk of long-term complications and better support their overall health.xvii
These conversations do not always happen automatically. That’s why healthcare advocates are encouraging Canadians with T2D to look beyond blood sugar during appointments with their healthcare provider—and ask questions about heart health, kidney health, liver health or weight management. At any stage, one more question can create space for a richer discussion, help build a fuller picture of your health and support long-term care that looks beyond blood sugar.
You might ask: How could T2D be affecting my heart? Should I have my kidney or liver health checked? Could my weight be affecting my overall health? While these questions may seem simple, they can help create opportunities for more comprehensive discussions about risk factors, screening, monitoring, and personalized care plans.
“Healthcare appointments can be busy, and it’s easy to focus on the issue that brought you into the office that day,” says Dr. Bajaj. “A simple question can open the door to a more complete conversation about your health and help ensure important risks aren’t overlooked.”
Take the first step
You don’t have to wait for World Diabetes Day to take the first step.
Whether you are living with T2D, have risk factors for the condition, or simply want to better understand your health, taking action today can help support your future wellbeing.xviii
Learning the signs of T2D, understanding the broader health risks associated with the condition, and speaking with a healthcare professional are important first steps.
At your next appointment, consider asking one more question: how else could T2D be affecting my health? It could be the start of a more comprehensive conversation about your risks, your care, and the actions you can take today to help protect your long-term wellbeing.
Visit www.diabetes.ca/stopthestigma for more information.
