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World Diabetes Day is observed every year on November 14 and the day aims to raise awareness about diabetes and its preventive measures. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), there are estimated 77 million people above the age of 18 years are suffering from diabetes (type 2) and nearly 25 million are prediabetics in India.

The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) says that there are 537 million adults between 20 and 79 years old who are living with diabetes globally. This number is predicted to rise to 643 million by 2030 and 783 million by 2045.

Diabetes is a disease wherein your blood sugar (glucose) levels are high. A person usually develops the condition when their pancreas doesn’t make enough insulin or no insulin at all or when their body doesn’t respond to the insulin that is produced by the pancreas. WHO says that uncontrolled blood sugar levels “over time leads to serious damage to many of the body's systems, especially the nerves and blood vessels.”

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

World Diabetes Day is celebrated across the globe on November 14. This year too the day will be celebrated by healthcare experts, medical professionals and people across the globe.

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

World Diabetes Day was introduced 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 commemorated every year on November 14th. The day honours the birthday of Sir Frederick Banting, who, along with Charles Best, discovered insulin in 1922, thereby, revolutionising diabetes treatment. The day aims to raise awareness about diabetes, its prevention, and improved care.

World Diabetes Day holds immense significance as global platforms spread awareness and take action against diabetes. The day highlights the importance of addressing the diabetes epidemic which is a chronic condition affecting millions of people globally. The day underscores the importance of education, prevention and early detection in curbing the disease’s impact.

By shedding light on diabetes, its risk factors, and management, World Diabetes Day amplifies the efforts, thereby, 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 healthier, diabetes-free world.

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