Today is world Diabetes Day, a day set aside world over to raise awareness on the impact of diabetes as a global public health concerns.
Diabetes is a condition where the pancreas in the body does not produce enough insulin to help body cells to function optimally
It was in the efforts to address the complications arising from the disease that the United Nations in 2006 adopted a resolution for the commemoration of world diabetes Day which was officially celebrated in 2007 after several years of the celebration of the event by the international diabetes Federation.
The day which marks the birthday of Frederick Banting who alongside Charles Best and John James who first conceived the idea that led to the discovery of insulin in 1922, also mandate the member nations to develop national policy for diabetes prevention, treatment and care.
Diabetes which is one of the most killer diseases in the world today is the leading cause of kidney failure, heart failure, stroke, amputation and blindness.
A reliable statistics shows that over six hundred and thirty million people across the world are diabetic with millions of them unaware of the disease in the developing countries which account for the increasing mortality.
This year’s celebration with the theme “Breaking Barriers, bridging gaps” emphasis the need for commitment towards reducing the risk and ensuring access to treatment and care
What are the factors responsible for the increase in diabetic patients in society today? A Dietician and HOD Nutrition and dietetics Department FMC Umuahia Mrs Confidence Solomon blamed it on consumption sedentary food and unhealthy lifestyles.
Can diabetes be cured? Mrs Solomon said that the disease cannot be cured but can be managed.
What should be done to ensure diabetes free society Mrs Solomon said people should eat healthy food, natural food and balance diet?
As the world marks this event today there is the need for government at all levels to increase awareness and investment on diabetes care and prevention to reduce the complications associated with the disease, while people on their part should adopt a healthy lifestyles.
