Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term v4 - SHS 3
DISEASES AND DISORDERS
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DISEASES AND DISORDERS
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Subject: Biomedical Science
Class: SHS 3
Term: 1st Term
Week: 20
Grade code: 2.2.2.LI.3
Strand code: 2
Sub-strand code: 2
Content standard code: 2.2.2.CS.1
Indicator code: 2.2.2.LI.3
Theme: HUMAN BODY SYSTEMS
Subtheme: DISEASES AND DISORDERS
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Diabetes, often referred to in our communities as "sugar disease," is a chronic health condition that is becoming increasingly common in Ghana. It affects people of all ages, from children to the elderly, and places a significant burden on families and our healthcare system (like the NHIS). Understanding this disease is not just an academic exercise; it is a critical life skill for personal health, family care, and community well-being. This lesson will demystify diabetes by exploring its biological basis, its signs, and how it can be managed effectively to allow individuals to live long, healthy lives.
A. The Basics: Glucose and Insulin
Our bodies need energy to function—to walk, think, and even breathe. This energy primarily comes from glucose, a simple sugar. Glucose: The main fuel for our cells. We get it from the breakdown of carbohydrate-rich foods common in Ghana, such as kenkey, fufu, banku, rice, yam, and bread. After digestion, glucose enters the bloodstream. Insulin: A hormone produced by the beta cells in the pancreas (specifically, the Islets of Langerhans). Insulin acts like a key. It travels through the bloodstream and binds to receptors on our body's cells (like muscle, fat, and liver cells), "unlocking" them to allow glucose to move from the blood into the cells to be used for energy. B. The Normal Blood Sugar Regulation Feedback Loop
Your body is very smart and works to keep blood glucose levels within a narrow, healthy range. This is a negative feedback system: You Eat: You enjoy a meal of waakye and shito. The carbohydrates are digested into glucose, which enters your bloodstream. Your blood glucose level rises. Pancreas Responds: The high blood glucose is detected by the pancreas. In response, the pancreas releases insulin into the blood. Cells Take Up Glucose: Insulin travels to your body's cells and acts as the "key," allowing them to absorb glucose from the blood. Liver Stores Glucose: Insulin also signals the liver to take up excess glucose and store it as glycogen for later use. Blood Glucose Falls: As cells and the liver take up glucose, the level in the blood returns to normal. The pancreas then reduces insulin secretion.
This entire process ensures your cells get the energy they need without the blood having too much sugar. C. What is Diabetes Mellitus?