World Diabetes Day 2024
The 14th of November is World Diabetes Day. It provides an opportunity to raise awareness about diabetes as a critical global health issue. This day helps emphasize the actions needed to improve prevention, diagnosis, and management of the condition.
This year’s theme is “Breaking Barriers, Bridging Gaps.” It highlights the commitment to reducing the risk of diabetes and ensuring that all people diagnosed have access to quality treatment.
The History Behind World Diabetes Day
World Diabetes Day was created in 1991 by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and the World Health Organization (WHO). In response to rising concerns over diabetes as a serious health issue globally. At the time, diabetes was not receiving the attention it deserved, despite the growing number of cases worldwide. In 2006, the United Nations officially recognized World Diabetes Day.
The choice of November 14th as World Diabetes Day is meaningful, as it marks the birthday of Sir Frederick Banting. One of the Canadian scientists who discovered insulin in 1921, alongside his colleague Charles Best. The discovery of insulin revolutionized diabetes treatment, turning what was once a fatal disease into a manageable condition. Before insulin was discovered, a diabetes diagnosis often meant a life of suffering and an early death. Banting and Best’s discovery saved millions of lives and led to the development of modern diabetes treatment. Since then, World Diabetes Day has been a key event to raise awareness and support the millions living with diabetes. Emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis, access to care, and lifestyle management.
Understanding Diabetes
Diabetes is a condition that causes a persons blood sugar level to become to high. There are 2 main types of diabetes
- Type 1 Diabetes – A lifelong condition where the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the cells that produce insulin.
- Type 2 Diabetes – A condition in which the body does not produce enough insulin, or the body’s cells do not react to insulin properly.
Type 2 diabetes is more common than type 1. In the UK, over 90% of all adults with diabetes have type 2.
Diabetes can be caused by many factors. The amount of sugar in the blood is controlled by a hormone called insulin, which is produced by the pancreas. When food is digested and enters your bloodstream insulin moves glucose out of the blood and into cells. Where it is then broken down to produce energy.
However if you have diabetes, your body is unable to break down glucose into energy. This is because there’s either not enough insulin to move the glucose, or the insulin produced does not work properly.
The Significance Of World Diabetes Day
World Diabetes Day is important for raising awareness about how diabetes affects people, families, and healthcare systems. It highlights the need for early diagnosis, proper care, and healthy lifestyle changes. Today encourages health organizations and advocates to push for policies that make diabetes care more accessible and affordable. Especially for those who need it most. As diabetes cases rise, World Diabetes Day helps spread the message about prevention and healthier living.
World Diabetes Day is also a chance to recognize progress in diabetes care and research. It brings together communities, healthcare professionals, and advocates to share information and support. By sharing personal stories, the day inspires hope and encourages people to take charge of their health. It also encourages governments and organizations to make diabetes a top health priority. With the goal of better managing and eventually preventing the disease.
The Best Winter Foods For Diabetics
As winter sets in, it’s important for people with diabetes to choose foods that help keep blood sugar levels stable while providing warmth and nutrition. Many winter foods are not only delicious but also packed with vitamins, fibre, and antioxidants that support overall health. In this guide, we’ll look at some of the best foods for diabetics during the colder months. These foods are great for managing blood sugar, boosting energy, and keeping you healthy all season long.
- Pumpkin
Pumpkin is a winter vegetable with a low glycaemic load. This means it doesn’t cause rapid blood sugar increases. It contains antioxidants, fibre, and essential vitamins. They can benefit heart health and support immune function.
- Oats
A warming breakfast option for cold mornings. Oats have a low glycaemic index and are high in fibre, especially beta-glucan, which can slow glucose absorption.
- Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are a winter favourite for people with diabetes. They offer complex carbohydrates that are digested slowly. Preventing sudden spikes in blood sugar.
- Spinach
This leafy green vegetable is packed with magnesium, iron, and fibre. Which aid in regulating blood sugar and improving overall metabolic health.
The Global Impact Of Diabetes: Why World Diabetes Day Matters
Diabetes has become a global health crisis, affecting over 537 million people worldwide. A number that is expected to rise by 783 million by 2045 if current trends continue. According to the international Diabetes Federation, approximately 1 in 10 adults are living with diabetes. An alarming half of these individuals are undiagnosed. The disease is responsible for more than 6.7 million deaths each year or about 1 death every 5 seconds. Diabetes not only affects people’s health but also costs healthcare systems a lot of money. In 2021, global spending on diabetes was about £966 billion, which is over 12% of all healthcare spending worldwide. As the number of people affected by diabetes continues to rise, World Diabetes Day serves as an opportunity to raise awareness. Focusing on prevention, improving access to care, and pushing for better resources to manage this growing health issue.
Diabetes And Well-Being
Millions of people with diabetes face daily challenges managing their condition at home, work, and school. They must stay organized, responsible, and resilient, juggling tasks like blood sugar monitoring, medication, and meal planning. This constant attention to detail can be mentally draining, leading to stress and burnout. The focus on blood sugar control alone can leave individuals feeling overwhelmed. As they must also adapt to changing circumstances—whether it’s a busy workday or a family event. For many, diabetes management feels like a full-time job, impacting both their physical and mental well-being.
The mental health toll of living with diabetes is often overlooked. Anxiety and depression are common, with up to 30% of people with diabetes experiencing symptoms of depression. The constant worry about complications, stigma, or how others perceive their condition can increase emotional stress. This mental burden can, in turn, affect blood sugar control, creating a vicious cycle. It’s important to address both the emotional and physical sides of diabetes to improve overall well-being. Support from doctors, family, and friends helps people manage the mental challenges of diabetes.
Conclusion
World Diabetes Day serves as a powerful reminder of the global scale of diabetes and the urgent need for collective action. As more people are diagnosed with diabetes, it’s crucial to raise awareness, promote early detection, and push for better access to care. The theme “Breaking Barriers, Bridging Gaps” urges us to tackle the inequalities that stop people from getting the care and support they need. Whether it’s improving healthcare access, teaching prevention, or offering emotional support,. Every effort counts. By working together we can make a real difference and help people manage and live with diabetes.
We have another article that explains further about the rising risk of diabetes in older adults