World Diabetes Day: 14 Nov, 2024

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Diabetes, impacting millions worldwide, is one such disease. World Diabetes Day, observed on November 14, reminds us of the importance of awareness, prevention, and support for those affected. This year, as we approach World Diabetes Day 2024, let’s take a moment to understand the challenges, discover small lifestyle changes that can help, and learn about the global movement towards a healthier future.
Join us on this journey to understand what this particular day is and contribute to a world with fewer cases of this condition.

What is World Diabetes Day?

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With such staggering statistics, it’s clear that this condition affects not only individuals but entire communities and health systems.

To address this, World Diabetes Day (WDD) was established. Celebrated every year on November 14, it was initiated to increase global awareness and encourage coordinated action in combating this serious health issue.

Launched by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and made official by the United Nations (UN) in 2006, WDD aims to highlight the impact of this disease on individuals’ lives and health systems. It also encourages better access to essential medicines, like insulin, which can often be inaccessible or unaffordable in many parts of the world.

How Does World Diabetes Day Impact Our Lives?

World Diabetes Day serves as a powerful reminder of the urgent need for awareness, early detection, and accessible care. It’s a day to rally together, learn, and advocate for a future where this condition is better understood, managed, and, ultimately, prevented.

In the upcoming points, we will highlight why World Diabetes Day is so vital and the impact it has on our collective efforts to tackle this disease —

Raising Global Awareness of Diabetes: World Diabetes Day reaches over 1 billion people across 160 countries, creating widespread awareness of this disease that affects 1 in 10 adults globally. By spreading critical information, it encourages people to understand the disease, recognise its symptoms, and learn about preventive measures.
Promoting Early Diagnosis and Reducing Risks: With almost half of diabetes cases being undiagnosed, early detection can save lives. Timely diagnosis helps prevent severe complications — those diagnosed early can manage their condition better. This annual campaign emphasises the importance of regular check-ups and screenings to catch the condition early on.
Advocating for Accessible Diabetes Care: One of World Diabetes Day’s main goals is to push for equitable access to affordable care. Currently, about 50% of people who need insulin for type 2 diabetes cannot access it. The campaign urges policymakers to bridge this gap and make sure that life-saving treatment reaches everyone who needs it.
Encouraging Healthier Lifestyle Choices: World Diabetes Day also inspires us to adopt healthier habits to help prevent type 2 diabetes, which accounts for over 90% of cases. By promoting balanced diets, regular exercise, and routine health monitoring, it highlights the impact of small, consistent lifestyle changes.
Uniting Communities in Support of People with Diabetes: Through events, webinars, and local activities, World Diabetes Day connects people living with diabetes, their families, and health professionals. These community efforts provide support networks and offer valuable resources to those affected, strengthening both emotional and practical support systems.
Driving Global Advocacy for Policy Change: World Diabetes Day empowers communities to advocate for improved healthcare policies focused on this condition’s prevention and management. With collective voices calling for change, the campaign influences governments worldwide to prioritise diabetes as a public health issue, ultimately making a difference on a global scale.

The Story of World Diabetes Day

World Diabetes Day was established in 1991 by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and the World Health Organization (WHO) in response to this condition’s rising global prevalence.

November 14 was chosen as it commemorates the birthday of Sir Frederick Banting, who, along with Charles Best, discovered insulin in 1922— a breakthrough that transformed diabetes management and has saved countless lives since.

Initially, this day was a relatively small observance to raise awareness. However, its significance grew quickly as cases continued to rise worldwide. By 2006, the United Nations officially recognised World Diabetes Day as an international day of health awareness through Resolution 61/225. This declaration highlighted the urgent need to address the disease and urged nations to prioritise diabetes care and prevention.

The campaign has since evolved into the world’s largest diabetes awareness event, now reaching over 1 billion people in more than 160 countries. The day is marked by various activities, from diabetes screenings and educational seminars to sporting events and fundraising walks.

A powerful symbol of unity — the blue circle — was introduced as the official emblem, which represents the global effort to combat diabetes. On World Diabetes Day, prominent monuments and landmarks worldwide — from the Eiffel Tower to the Sydney Opera House — are illuminated in blue as a call for collective action.

Theme of World Diabetes Day 2024: Diabetes And Well-Being

World Diabetes Day 2024 adopts the theme ‘Diabetes and Well-being’, emphasising a holistic approach to this condition’s management that prioritises both physical and mental health. This theme, which will span from 2024 to 2026, highlights the often-overlooked challenges people with this disease face beyond blood sugar control.

Why Focus on Well-being?

The daily management of this disease involves more than just medical care — it requires resilience and emotional support.

Studies show that 36% of people with this disease experience ‘diabetes distress’, while 63% worry about complications impacting their health and life. The 2024 theme seeks to address these issues by promoting awareness of mental health resources, community support, and self-care practices.

How Can You Participate?

There are various ways to support this year’s theme.

From participating in events that encourage physical activity to joining awareness campaigns on social media, everyone can contribute. The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) also offers resources — letters to policymakers, social media kits, and more — to spread the message. Wearing blue on November 14 or organising local diabetes-friendly activities can show solidarity.

What Role Does Education Play?

Education remains at the core of diabetes management. In 2024, the theme encourages accessible, high-quality education for patients, families, and healthcare professionals. By understanding the mental and physical needs of those with this condition, communities can offer better support. Education initiatives aim to reduce misconceptions, provide emotional support, and guide people in adopting healthier lifestyles.

How Does This Theme Support a Better Future?

The ‘Diabetes and Well-being’ theme isn’t just about managing it today — it’s about promoting a healthier tomorrow. By focusing on mental, societal, and physical well-being, World Diabetes Day 2024 encourages a supportive environment where affected individuals can thrive. This forward-looking approach helps reduce the risk of complications and builds a community where well-being is prioritised.

How Health Insurance Can Help Manage Diabetes Costs in the UAE?

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In the UAE, where the prevalence of diabetes is nearly double the global average — impacting around 19% of residents — health insurance that includes diabetes coverage is essential. Managing this condition can be costly — insurance can at least reduce the financial burden of regular doctor visits, medications, and complications that arise from lack of treatment or poor management.

Given below are the key reasons why coverage for this disease is important and how it supports a healthier lifestyle —

What Does Diabetes Coverage Offer?

Diabetes coverage within UAE health insurance plans generally includes outpatient consultations, blood tests, insulin, and other essential medications. Coverage can also extend to wellness programs that let individuals manage their lifestyle and diet as these play a pivotal role in managing this condition.

Many policies cover both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, which allows access to regular screenings for complications. This, in turn, can prevent severe conditions such as kidney disease and heart issues.

Why is it Important for UAE Residents?

Considering the high rates of diabetes in the UAE, it is important to have financial cover for the same. Given the government’s mandate that all residents have health insurance, it is highly recommended to buy a health plan that provides basic coverage for this condition. This ensures that you receive timely check-ups, which are critical for preventing complications that could otherwise become costly.

How Can You Choose the Right Plan?

When selecting a health insurance plan, you should consider factors such as coverage limits for medications and the availability of specialised diabetes services.

For those with pre-existing conditions, employer-provided group plans usually offer coverage for this disease without additional premiums. Individual policies, meanwhile, may require a waiting period before full coverage kicks in.

Reviewing each plan’s details can help you find an option that meets your insurance needs for diabetes care and protects against financial strain.

Steps to Reduce Your Risk of Diabetes

Preventing diabetes, especially type 2, is possible through manageable lifestyle changes. These steps can reduce the risk factor and improve overall health —

Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess weight, especially around the abdomen, increases the risk of this condition. Studies show that losing even 5-7% of your body weight can significantly lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Be Physically Active: Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity, 5 days a week. Activities like walking, cycling, and strength training help your body regulate blood sugar more efficiently and reduce insulin resistance.
Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on whole grains, lean proteins, and plenty of fruits and vegetables. Limit sugary beverages and refined carbs, which can cause blood sugar spikes.

A balanced diet can help you better manage weight and provide steady energy.

Quit Smoking: Smoking can increase the risk of diabetes and its complications, including heart disease and kidney damage. Quitting smoking can improve your overall health and lower diabetes risk.
Limit Alcohol Intake: Excessive alcohol can lead to weight gain and increased blood pressure. So even if you drink, do so in moderation to reduce the strain on your pancreas and prevent the development of this disease.
Regular Check-Ups: Regular health screenings, especially if you have a family history of this condition, can help in early detection. Routine check-ups can identify prediabetes, allowing you to make proactive lifestyle changes.

Disclaimer: The information is for reference purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. In case of any health-related queries or concerns, immediately get in touch with your doctor or healthcare professional.

Let’s Take Action Together!

As we mark World Diabetes Day, let’s remember that each small step counts toward a healthier, diabetes-free future. Whether it’s choosing a balanced diet, staying active, or scheduling regular check-ups, it’s important to make such daily choices to manage and even prevent this disease.

Health insurance also plays an important role in this journey. It provides the financial support needed for regular screenings, medications, and essential care. With the right lifestyle habits and the protection of health coverage, we can reduce the impact of diabetes and support a healthier future for ourselves and our loved ones!