world diabetes day Celebrated every year on 14th November, the day aims to raise awareness about diabetes and its preventive measures. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 77 million people above the age of 18 years in India have diabetes (type 2) and about 25 million have prediabetes.

The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) says 537 million adults between the ages of 20 and 79 suffer from diabetes globally. This number is projected to increase to 643 million by 2030 and 783 million by 2045.

Diabetes is a disease in which your blood sugar (glucose) levels are high. A person usually develops the condition when their pancreas does not make enough insulin or does not make any insulin at all or when their body does not respond to the insulin produced by the pancreas. The WHO says that uncontrolled blood sugar levels “over time cause serious damage to many of the body’s systems, especially nerves and blood vessels.”

In the early stages, diabetes may not seem like a big health issue. However, if the condition is not managed well, it can lead to major health issues like chronic kidney disease, retinopathy, neuropathy, heart disease and others. Therefore, it is important to take necessary measures that can control the blood sugar levels and also prevent the onset of the disease.

world diabetes day date

World Diabetes Day is celebrated across the world on 14 November. This year also the day will be celebrated by health care experts, medical professionals and people across the world.

world diabetes day 2024 theme

The theme of World Diabetes Day this year is “Breaking Barriers, Bridging Gaps”. This theme highlights the impact of diabetes on the physical and mental health of people. It also emphasizes the importance of diabetes management and how it can improve a person’s quality of life.

History of World Diabetes Day

World Diabetes Day was initiated in 1991 by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and the World Health Organization (WHO) in response to the increasing global prevalence of diabetes. This event is celebrated every year on 14 November. The day honors the birthday of Sir Frederick Banting, who along with Charles Best discovered insulin in 1922, revolutionizing the treatment of diabetes. The purpose of this day is to raise awareness about diabetes, its prevention and better care.

Importance of World Diabetes Day

World Diabetes Day has immense significance as global platforms spread awareness and take action against diabetes. The day highlights the importance of tackling the diabetes epidemic, a chronic condition affecting millions of people globally. The day underlines the importance of education, prevention and early detection in curbing the impact of the disease.

By highlighting diabetes, its risk factors and management, World Diabetes Day amplifies efforts, encouraging governments, healthcare providers and communities to come together for better diabetes care and research. It also empowers people to make informed lifestyle choices, thereby contributing to a healthy, diabetes-free world.

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