Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes and hypertension affect far more than the underlying condition itself. Poor control of blood sugar and blood pressure can lead to serious complications involving three major organ systems: the eyes (diabetic retinopathy), the feet (diabetic foot ulcers that may progress to amputation), and the kidneys (chronic kidney disease and kidney failure). Early screening with advanced diagnostic technology, combined with timely lifestyle modifications, is the most effective strategy for preventing complications and preserving long-term quality of life.
A Closer Look at the Three Major Organs Most Affected by NCDs
Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) account for approximately 74% of all deaths worldwide. In Thailand, people with diabetes who are unable to maintain healthy blood sugar levels face a significantly increased risk of serious complications. About one in three may develop chronic kidney disease, while 20–25% may experience diabetic retinopathy, a leading cause of vision loss. In addition, people with diabetes are 15–25 times more likely to require lower-limb amputation than those without diabetes, particularly when foot wounds are not properly managed.
Persistently high blood sugar can damage and block the tiny blood vessels in the retina. In response, the body forms new blood vessels that are fragile and prone to bleeding. These abnormal vessels can also pull on the retina, leading to retinal damage and vision loss.
Warning signs include:
Floating black spots or "floaters"
Sudden blurred vision
Distorted or wavy vision
High blood sugar can damage the peripheral nerves, causing numbness in the feet and reducing the ability to feel pain when injuries occur. At the same time, poor blood circulation slows wound healing and increases the risk of infection.
Warning signs include:
Persistent numbness in the feet, as if wearing socks all the time
Unusually dry or cracked skin on the feet
Small wounds or ulcers that do not heal within one week
Both diabetes and high blood pressure place excessive strain on the kidneys' filtering units (glomeruli). Over time, this can cause inflammation and scarring, gradually reducing the kidneys' ability to filter waste and excess fluid from the blood.
Warning signs include:
Foamy urine
Swelling around the lower legs, ankles, or eyes
Unexplained fatigue or persistent tiredness
Screening: The Key to Preventing Serious NCD Complications
Advances in medical technology now make it possible to detect early damage to the eyes, kidneys, and blood vessels before symptoms develop. Early screening allows doctors to identify potential problems, begin treatment promptly, and help prevent long-term complications.
Digital Retinal Photography uses a high-resolution digital camera to capture detailed images of the retina and detect abnormalities in the retinal blood vessels. In many cases, this examination can be performed without dilating the pupils.
The retina is the only place in the body where doctors can directly examine blood vessels. Early diabetic eye disease often develops without noticeable symptoms, but delayed diagnosis may result in permanent vision loss. Annual retinal imaging allows physicians to compare images over time and monitor disease progression accurately.
The Microalbuminuria Test detects very small amounts of protein leaking into the urine—one of the earliest signs of kidney damage.
Routine urinalysis often identifies protein only after significant kidney impairment has already occurred. Microalbuminuria testing is much more sensitive and can detect subtle kidney changes at an early stage, allowing doctors to adjust medications and recommend lifestyle changes that may slow or even prevent further kidney damage.
The Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) measures blood flow to the legs and feet to evaluate peripheral arterial disease and the risk of poor wound healing.
If you experience numbness in your feet or have wounds that heal slowly, an annual ABI test can determine whether your feet are receiving adequate blood circulation. An abnormal ABI result enables physicians to plan appropriate treatment to improve circulation and reduce the risk of chronic ulcers and lower-limb amputation.
Lifestyle Changes That Help Prevent NCD Complications
1. Have Annual Health Screenings Even if you feel well, people living with diabetes or hypertension should undergo comprehensive eye and kidney examinations at least once a year.
2. Inspect Your Feet Every DayCheck the bottoms of your feet daily using a mirror. If you notice redness, blisters, cuts, or small wounds, seek medical attention promptly before they become serious.
3. Follow the Healthy Plate Model
Aim for:
Limiting salty and sugary foods can help control blood pressure, stabilize blood sugar levels, and reduce stress on the kidneys.
4. Exercise Regularly
Choose low-impact activities such as brisk walking or cycling to improve cardiovascular health, enhance circulation, and support blood sugar control.
Thonburi Thawiwatthana Hospital, we are committed to providing comprehensive care for every patient, especially those living with non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Managing NCDs is about more than taking medication—it is about preserving your quality of life. Preventive care can help protect your vision, reduce the risk of kidney failure and dialysis, and lower the chance of limb amputation. Investing in prevention today is one of the most valuable decisions you can make for yourself and the people you love.
