Qatar Diabetes Association (QDA) has launched its annual campaign on the occasion of World Diabetes Day (WDD), which falls on November 14, a statement said Wednesday.
Led by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and the participation of all its members from diabetes associations around the world, WDD was established in 1991 in association with the World Health Organization in response to growing concerns about the escalating health threat posed by diabetes.
The campaign draws attention to issues of paramount importance to the diabetes world and keeps diabetes firmly in the public and political spotlight. Millions of people with diabetes face daily challenges managing their condition at home, work, and school. Diabetes care often focuses only on blood sugar, leaving many overwhelmed.
WDD takes on a new slogan every year, highlighting one of the topics of diabetes, and for 2024, the campaign focuses on 'Diabetes & Well-being.'
This year's WDD campaign is focused on several key aspects. The first is the lives of diabetics, with millions of people with diabetes facing daily challenges in managing their condition at home, work and school, often having a negative impact on their health.
The second aspect focused on diabetes care, emphasising that it includes adequate support for a good healthy life, while the third aspect stressed the need to give priority to supporting the quality of healthy life for diabetics.
QDA director Dr Abdulla al-Hamaq, said: "The facts and figures of diabetes show the escalating global burden on people and countries. According to the International Diabetes Federation, approximately 537mn adults (20-79 years) are living with diabetes, and by 2045, projections show that about 783mn, will live with diabetes, an increase of 46%.”
"More than 90% of people living with diabetes are type II diabetes, which is driven by social, economic, environmental, and genetic factors. Low levels of physical activity, weight gain, and the prevalence of obesity are among the causes of type II diabetes. However, it is possible to reduce the impact of diabetes by taking preventive measures and providing early diagnosis and appropriate care.
"Therefore, we consider World Diabetes Day as a mobilisation for the entire global diabetes community to provide a strong common voice to raise awareness of diabetes, its seriousness, and how to prevent it. We also want all concerned parties to take the necessary measures to combat it and ensure the safety of our communities" he added.
QDA's campaign includes many events, especially the 'Diabetes Walkathon' on November 15, in its eighteenth edition, at Aspire Park. Over the years, the Walkathon has attracted decision-makers, health leaders, school and university students, as well as the general public.
Dr al-Hamaq called on all government agencies, civil society institutions, schools, sports clubs, individuals and opinion leaders, journalists, and all individuals to register and participate in the success of the enlightenment process.
QDA is organising its annual medical conference on 'Diabetes Comorbidities and Complications' which dedicates its efforts to the treatment of diabetes, related complications, technology, and prevention. The conference will be held on November 8-9, at the Qatar National Convention Centre.
One of the activities of the campaign is the Blue Circle Test on a large scale, to assess the level of risk factors for type II diabetes. Studies have shown that it is possible to avoid it through a healthy diet and regular exercise. The blue circle is the logo of WDD and signifies the unity of the global diabetes community in response to the diabetes epidemic.
Throughout the month of November, the campaign also includes lectures and workshops in schools, universities, ministries, and the private sector. This year's campaign will also continue the steps of success of previous years' campaigns. Many prominent buildings across Qatar will be lit up in blue colour, joining thousands of buildings around the world to reiterate focus on diabetes.
