**Rising Diabetes Rates in Tijuana: Health Concerns and Causes**
Diabetes prevalence in Tijuana has become a matter of concern as new data indicates a significant rise in cases. José Abel Delgado Peraza, head of the Tijuana Health Services Jurisdiction, reported that the current prevalence rate has surged to around 14-15%, which marks an increase from previous estimates of 8%. Some studies even suggest the rate might be as high as 20%.
The recent health survey revealed that 13% of Tijuana’s population have diabetes, while an additional 6% may have undiagnosed diabetes. Delgado Peraza emphasized the growing concern, noting that diabetes now commonly begins affecting individuals from as young as 30 years old, in contrast to the past when those over 50 were primarily vulnerable.
Higher blood glucose levels can damage various parts of the body, primarily small blood vessels found in the eyes, legs, and kidneys, leading to complications like kidney failure and vision impairment. Diabetes remains one of the leading causes of blindness.
Unhealthy eating habits are also linked to increased obesity and heart attacks. Regular health check-ups, improved dietary habits, and weight management are strongly recommended by health officials to mitigate the risks associated with diabetes.
**Issues Heightened by Misuse of Ozempic and Health System Strains**
The misuse of Ozempic injections, originally intended for diabetes management but often used for weight loss, is causing shortages and adversely impacting diabetic patients who rely on the medication for proper glucose regulation.
Simultaneously, the health system faces additional pressures. The local health department aims to vaccinate 209,000 individuals against influenza, and there is a need for more qualified personnel at the Chaparral crossing to handle new X-ray equipment.
Unrelated local concerns include police working conditions affecting obesity rates and ongoing challenges at border crossings due to complicated deportation policies and understaffed checkpoints.
In community news, ongoing efforts to address social issues include discouraging the forced involvement of children in street begging and the proposed legislative changes to better protect vulnerable minors in such situations.
These health and social challenges reflect broader systemic issues the city of Tijuana is currently facing, urging increased awareness and proactive measures to tackle diabetes and its related consequences.