World Diabetes Day on November 14

In response to the alarming rate of diabetes cases in the world, the International Diabetes Federation and the World Health Organization started the global awareness campaign for diabetes mellitus in 1991. Every year thereafter, the world celebrates the battle against diabetes every November 14 in honor of Frederick Banting’s birthday, who together with Charles Best, led the discovery of insulin in 1922. Insulin is used to treat some forms of diabetes mellitus.

For the year 2009-2013, the theme for World Diabetes Day is Diabetes Education and Prevention to understand diabetes and to take control against the disease.

In Olongapo City, Mayor James “Bong” Gordon, Jr., has tasked the City Health Office to intensify the information dissemination program regarding diabetes prevention and care.

“In 1985, an estimated 30 million people worldwide had diabetes. After a decade, it increased to 150 million and today, people who have diabetes exceed 285 million,” said Mayor Gordon. We should all be aware of the prevention and risks associated with diabetes, not only for ourselves but also for our loved ones who may have the disease,” Mayor Gordon explained.

The warning signs of diabetes may include the following: frequent urination, excessive thirst, increased hunger, weight loss, tiredness, lack of interest and concentration, vomiting and stomach pain, a tingling sensation and numbness in hands or feet, blurred vision, frequent infection and slow healing wounds but these signs may also be absent with Type 2 Diabetes.

Pao/sara