It’s World Diabetes Day
TODAY is World Diabetes Day and it is being celebrated under the theme ‘Eyes on Diabetes.’
According to the United Nations (UN), globally an estimated 422 million adults were living with diabetes in 2014, compared to 108 million in 1980.
The global prevalence of diabetes has nearly doubled since 1980, rising from 4.7 per cent to 8.5 per cent in the adult population. The UN says this reflects an increase in associated risk factors such as being overweight or obese.
Over the past decade, diabetes prevalence has risen faster in low-and middle-income countries than in high-income countries.
In 2007 the UN General Assembly adopted resolution A/RES/61/225, designating November 14 as World Diabetes Day.
The UN explained that the document recognised “the urgent need to pursue multilateral efforts to promote and improve human health, and provide access to treatment and health education.”
The resolution also encouraged member states to develop national policies for the prevention, treatment and care of diabetes in line with the sustainable development of their health care systems.
Data shows that women with diabetes are more likely than men with the disease to have poor blood glucose control, be obese, and have high blood pressure and unhealthy cholesterol levels.
Diabetes is also one of the leading causes of blindness, so remember to have your blood glucose levels checked and adjust your lifestyle accordingly to prevent or reduce the effects of the condition.
