BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, CMC – The Caribbean is observing World Diabetes Day on Tuesday, providing an opportunity for the Region to raise awareness of Diabetes as a global public health issue and what needs to be done, collectively and individually, for better prevention, diagnosis, and management of the condition.
The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) said the Region of the Americas is currently the most affected by Diabetes globally. It said in just 30 years, the number of people with Diabetes increased from 18 million in 1980 to 62 million in 2014.
“This alarming increase in the burden of Diabetes reflects insufficient prevention, late diagnosis, and poor metabolic control and is directly related to the increasing prevalence of its main risk factors: overweight, obesity, and physical inactivity. Unfortunately, with prevalences of 63 percent and 39 percent, respectively, our Region is the most obese and inactive in the world.:
St. Kitts-Nevis Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew said Diabetes is a global health challenge that requires collective attention, “and this week provides us with an opportunity to unite in our efforts to combat this pervasive non-communicable disease.”
World Diabetes Day is being observed under the theme “ “Access to Diabetes Care,” and Prime Minister Drew, a medical practitioner, said it serves as a poignant reminder of the imperative to enhance awareness, promote early detection, and facilitate effective management of Diabetes.
“It serves as a collective call to action, urging not only policymakers and healthcare professionals but also community leaders and individuals to unite in addressing the multifaceted challenges Diabetes poses. ”
Dr. Drew said that by working together, “we can ensure that everyone, regardless of their background or circumstances, has equitable access to quality diabetes care and support.”
.He said in the twin island Federation, 13.7 percent of total deaths that occurred between 2017-2021 were attributed to Diabetes and its complications.
“The number of new cases of Diabetes Mellitus for the years 2019, 2020, and 2021 were 60, 85, and 81, respectively. At the end of 2020, 31.5 percent of men and 68.5 percent of women accounted for the total number of cases of Diabetes Mellitus in the Primary Care setting.”.
Prime Minister Drew said that he is encouraging all citizens to engage in conversations about diabetes prevention, risk factors, and management and support organizations like the various organizations that work tirelessly to impact the lives of those affected by Diabetes positively.
“For those at risk, do not let fear or uncertainty hold you back. Take charge of your health by getting tested for early detection and timely intervention,” Prime Minister Drew said.
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