November 10, 2021
September 14 is World Diabetes Day. The day is globally commemorated to raise awareness on the prevention and risk of the disease.
Diabetes is a condition where the body cannot control the amount of sugar (glucose) in the blood.
The Ministry of Health and Sanitation and partners through the Directorate of Non-communicable Diseases and Mental Health will commemorate the day on Monday 15th November this year instead of Sunday 14th November.
Giving an overview of the World Diabetes Day celebration, the Director at the Directorate of Non-communicable Diseases and Mental Health, Dr. Santigie Sesay said that diabetes is a dangerous disease which is why actions need to be taken for people to be educated enough on the risks and prevention of the disease, adding that global statistics shows that 422 million adults have diabetes which means 1 out of 11 people have the disease and 1.5 million people have succumbed to the disease.
He also said that though the country does not have a comprehensive data on the prevalence of the disease, however records from health facilities shows increase in cases of the diseases in the country and cases could rise if they embark on massive screening/testing in communities. Dr. Sesay reiterated that the consequences of the disease are huge as they can lead to stroke, blindness, heart attack, kidney failure and amputation in some cases.
Sesay cited unhealthy diet, lack of physical activity (exercise), obesity and over weigh as some of the risk factors for the disease.
He also referenced genetic issues which can be in the family and age. Dr. Sesay urged people to imbibe the culture of doing regular check-up for diabetes and other diseases as it is key in knowing your status which will help in the prevention and treatment of diseases, especially diabetes. He also added that healthy diet, physical activity (exercise) can also help to mitigate the risk of the disease. Dr. Sesay affirmed that the theme for this year’s celebration is “ACCESS TO DIABETES AND CARE” which aligns with their commitment to ensure that patients get the much needed care/services of diabetes. “Diabetes is both preventable and treatable. Take actions now, get screened/tested for diabetes.” Director Sesay urged the public.
The day will be celebrated on Monday 15th November instead of Sunday 14th September with a lined-up week-long activity like screening/testing, symposium, orientation of health workers and awareness rising and through the media.