On this day, November 14, we commemorate World Diabetes Day—a global initiative to raise awareness about the increasing health risks of diabetes. Instituted in 1991 by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and the World Health Organization (WHO), this observance serves to address the escalating prevalence of diabetes on a global scale.
The Minister of Health, the Hon. Kim Wilson, JP, MP, shares the following message about the significance of World Diabetes Day.
"Diabetes poses a substantial global health challenge, and its occurrence has been on the rise in numerous countries, Bermuda included, where 13% of the population is affected. Several factors contribute to the increase in diabetes, including sedentary lifestyles, unhealthy diets, and genetic predisposition.
“Common symptoms of diabetes include increased thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss or gain, fatigue, blurred vision, slow-healing wounds, and tingling or numbness in extremities. It's important to note that some individuals may not exhibit noticeable symptoms, emphasising the need for regular check-ups and monitoring. Consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and management.
“To minimise the risk of diabetes, adopting a proactive approach is crucial. Incorporate regular physical activity into your routine, choose healthier food and beverage options, and find effective stress management techniques. Prioritise overall well-being, consider participating in initiatives dedicated to diabetes prevention, and inspire others by sharing your commitment to a healthy lifestyle. These steps contribute to a good strategy for reducing the likelihood of developing diabetes.
"Another essential tool at your disposal is a Personal Diabetes Passport. The passport is designed to help you manage your diabetes care. It has an overview of the screenings, tests, or examinations you may undergo as part of your diabetes care. You can find it here: https://www.gov.bm/personal-diabetes-care-bermuda.
"Above all, prevention is key. The Ministry of Health is committed to promoting healthy lifestyles, raising awareness, and improving access to healthcare services to prevent and treat diabetes. I encourage everyone to learn about diabetes and especially diabetes prevention. Know the early warning signs of diabetes and take steps to avoid the onset of type 2 diabetes, which is predominantly a preventable condition.
“The Bermuda Diabetes Association is the leading provider of diabetes education, research, resources, and services, and during November, they have a series of engaging events and health screenings. You can access valuable local diabetes information by visiting https://www.diabetes.bm/.”