Today is World Diabetes Day
November is diabetes awareness month and November 14th is World Diabetes Day. The number of people with diabetes is expected to rise to 522 million by 2030. This year, the focus is on family, as detecting, preventing and caring for diabetes concerns every family.
Detecting diabetes
One in every two people with diabetes is undiagnosed. Early diagnosis and treatment is key to helping prevent or delay life-threatening complications.
Diabetes is the leading cause of heart disease, stroke, blindness, kidney failure and lower limb amputation.
Preventing diabetes
80% of cases of type 2 diabetes is preventable through the adoption of a healthy lifestyle.
When a family eats healthy meals and exercises together, all family members benefit and encourage behaviours that could help prevent type 2 diabetes in the family.
Caring for diabetes
Managing diabetes requires daily treatment, regular monitoring, a healthy lifestyle and ongoing education. Family support is key.
All health professionals should have the knowledge and skills to help individuals and families manage diabetes.
Learn more about World Diabetes Day at www.worlddiabetesday.org
