World Diabetes Day: Raising Awareness and Supporting Well-being

Date: November 14

Globally, diabetes has seen a significant rise over the past few decades, affecting an estimated 422 million adults by 2014 compared to 108 million in 1980. The prevalence has nearly doubled in adults, climbing from 4.7% to 8.5%, largely driven by increasing risk factors such as obesity and being overweight. The rise has been especially pronounced in low- and middle-income countries.

Diabetes is a major health challenge, contributing to serious conditions like blindness, kidney failure, heart attacks, strokes, and lower limb amputations. However, healthy lifestyle choices, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding tobacco use, can help prevent or delay type 2 diabetes. Effective diabetes management, through medications, regular health screenings, and timely treatment of complications, also plays a crucial role in reducing its impact.

In 2007, the United Nations General Assembly adopted resolution 61/225, designating November 14 as World Diabetes Day. This resolution highlighted the need for global cooperation to promote health, improve access to care, and raise awareness about diabetes. It also encouraged member states to develop national policies for diabetes prevention, treatment, and care, aligned with sustainable health-care system goals.

Focus on Diabetes and Well-being

From 2024 to 2026, the theme for World Diabetes Day is “Diabetes and Well-being.” The aim is to emphasize the importance of providing adequate care and support for individuals living with diabetes to help them lead fulfilling lives.

Millions of people face daily challenges in managing diabetes at home, work, and school. This condition demands a high level of discipline, organization, and responsibility, affecting both physical and mental health. Unfortunately, diabetes care often focuses exclusively on blood sugar levels, leaving many individuals feeling overwhelmed. This World Diabetes Day, let’s put well-being at the forefront of diabetes management and create meaningful changes for a better quality of life.

Understanding Diabetes

Diabetes is a chronic disease caused by the body’s inability to produce or effectively use insulin, leading to elevated blood glucose levels (hyperglycemia).

• Type 1 Diabetes: This form, previously known as insulin-dependent or childhood-onset diabetes, occurs when the pancreas produces little or no insulin.
• Type 2 Diabetes: Often linked to excess body weight and inactivity, this type results from the body’s inefficient use of insulin.
• Gestational Diabetes: This temporary form of diabetes arises during pregnancy but may increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later.

World Diabetes Day serves as a global reminder to improve health care, promote awareness, and offer support to those living with diabetes, enabling them to lead healthier, happier lives.