Health Days
World Diabetes Day 2023: History, Theme, Objective, and Significance
As 14th November approaches, the world gears up to bring awareness on a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a day not just for awareness but for action, education, and empowerment. World Diabetes Day is not just about statistics and facts; it is a call to arms, a call for change, and a call for hope.
In a world filled with innovation and progress, we have come a long way in understanding and managing diabetes. Technological advancements have revolutionized how we check and treat this condition, providing new possibilities and hope for individuals facing their daily challenges.
While celebrating progress, it is critical to recognize that a lot more still is to be done. The numbers, as startling as they are, highlight the seriousness of this condition. With over half a billion people worldwide suffering with diabetes, and the number rising, this is the right time to act, educate, and campaign.
This year, World Diabetes Day is not just a date on the calendar; but a greater chance or an opportunity to join, learn, support, and work to make diabetes no longer a barrier to anyone's well-being. This day acts as a rallying point for the global diabetes community, promoting awareness and advocating for better diabetes care, prevention, and a better knowledge about this chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide. In this blog, let us dive in and get to know more about the significance of this day.
History
The World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) collaborated in 1991 to establish World Diabetes Day (WDD). In 2006, it was declared an official United Nations Day. This yearly event coincides with the birthday of Sir Frederick Banting, the scientist who co-discovered insulin.
There are now more than 160 nations taking part in World Diabetes Day, making it a truly worldwide platform for raising diabetes awareness. The day ensures that diabetes continues to be in the spotlight by raising awareness of the challenges underlying the condition.
In honor of World Diabetes Day, you may have seen the blue circle logo. It all started in 2007 after being officially acknowledged by the United Nations. This logo conveys the notion that individuals worldwide are uniting in their efforts to fight diabetes, much like a global symbol.
Theme
The theme for World Diabetes Day 2021-23 is “Access to Diabetes Care.”
It is estimated that millions of people with diabetes worldwide do not have access to diabetes care and treatment. Whereas diabetes patients require continual care and support to manage their condition and avoid complications.
Objective
In 2023, the campaign will emphasize the importance of knowing your risk of type 2 diabetes to help prevent the condition, as well as the impact of diabetes-related complications and the importance of having access to the right information and care to ensure prompt treatment and management.
The following are a few diabetes coverage targets by 2030, in accordance with the collaborative endeavors of WHO and other organizations:
- As many as 80% of patients with diabetes have their condition diagnosed.
- About 80% have good control of their blood sugar.
- 80% of those who have been diagnosed have better glycemic and blood pressure control.
- A minimum of 60% of individuals aged 40 and older ought to have access to statins, a group of medications used to aid in the reduction of blood cholesterol levels.
- 100% of individuals with type 1 diabetes have affordable access to insulin and blood glucose self-monitoring.
Significance
According to the International Diabetes Foundation (IDF), in 2021, diabetes caused 6.7 million deaths and about one in ten people, i.e., 537 million adults, were living with diabetes, which is expected to increase to 643 million by 2030 and 783 million by 2045.
Approximately 240 million adults (or half of those with diabetes) are unaware that they have the disease. Many of them suffer from type 2 diabetes, which is preventable with a few dietary and lifestyle adjustments. As a result of not knowing the symptoms and not getting a diagnosis early, about 541 million people are at risk of getting type 2 diabetes.
By setting up and keeping healthy routines, type 2 diabetes and its complications can often be prevented. Diabetes can have dangerous and fatal side effects if it is not detected and treated on time.
- For those who are at risk of type 2 diabetes, understanding your risk and taking proper action is crucial to promote early detection, prompt diagnosis, and effective treatment.
- For those individuals with diabetes, it is crucial that they have knowledge, access to correct information, and the most effective self-care medications and devices to prevent complications.
Preventive Tips to Manage Diabetes
- Avoid sugar and refined carbohydrates from your diet.
- Avoid large meal portion sizes to reduce insulin and blood sugar levels.
- Quit smoking to reduce the risk of Type 2 Diabetes.
- Have plenty of fiber, which is beneficial for gut health and weight management.
- Be more physically active to lower your blood sugar.
- Minimize the intake of highly processed foods and beverages.
- Keep your blood pressure and cholesterol under control.
On this World Diabetes Day, let us work together to foster change. Whether it is choosing a healthy lifestyle, helping people in need, advocating for better healthcare policies, or raising awareness, every action counts.
As we move forward, let us keep in mind that a concerted effort can pave the way for a healthier, more inclusive future free of diabetes.
Remember, that our actions today shape the world we live in tomorrow.
Happy World Diabetes Day!
Tags:
World Diabetes Day is a global awareness campaign held on November 14th each year. It aims to raise awareness about diabetes, its impact on health, and the importance of diabetes prevention and management.
The theme for World Diabetes Day 2023 was “Access to Diabetes Care.” This theme emphasizes the need for equitable access to diabetes education, prevention, and treatment resources for all individuals affected by the condition.
World Diabetes Day is organized by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO). These organizations work together to promote diabetes awareness and education globally.