World Diabetes Day

World Diabetes Day History

World Diabetes Day (WDD) aims to raise global awareness about the impact of diabetes, its complications, and the importance of proper management and prevention strategies. The annual observance highlights the need for support and education, emphasizing the role of families, healthcare professionals, and communities in managing, preventing, and caring for those living with diabetes. The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) sets annual themes, focusing on specific aspects of the disease, with recent themes addressing diabetes and mental health, the role of the family, and the need for affordable access to care.

Established in 1991 by the IDF and the World Health Organisation (WHO), World Diabetes Day was created in response to the alarming increase in global diabetes cases. Australia has not been immune to this trend, with the diabetes prevalence steadily rising over the past few decades, affecting over 1.2 million Australians. Type 2 diabetes, the most common form of the disease in Australia, is largely preventable or manageable through lifestyle interventions such as exercise and nutrition. However, access to resources, support, and education remains an ongoing challenge, particularly for those in rural and remote areas.

In Australia, World Diabetes Day is observed through a range of initiatives designed to raise awareness and support those affected by the disease. Various events, workshops, fundraisers, and educational activities are held across the country, encouraging Australians to engage with the issue and promote healthy lifestyle choices. Activities are not limited to one specific day but are usually centered around the official global observance of World Diabetes Day on November 14 each year. By participating in or supporting these activities, individuals and communities across Australia can help tackle the growing diabetes challenge and promote better health for all.

World Diabetes Day facts

• The theme for World Diabetes Day in 2023 was Access to diabetes care.
• According to HealthData.org, as of June 2023, more than half a billion people live with diabetes worldwide.
• More than 80% of deaths related to diabetes occur in low and middle income countries.
• Diabetes is more common among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, with rates almost four times higher than those of the non-Indigenous population.
• Diabetes has a significant economic impact on Australia, with an estimated annual direct cost of more than $1.7 billion.

In the News and Trending in Australia for World Diabetes Day

Top things to do in Australia for World Diabetes Day

• Visit your doctor if you are overweight, obese, do not regularly exercise and do not eat a balanced diet. These are all factors that can cause diabetes.
• Learn about ways to control and lower the risk of developing diabetes. The American Diabetes Association provides some great ways to reduce your risk which include:
  1) Eat a healthy balanced diet
  2) Exercise regularly
  3) Ensure that you are not overweight or obese
  4) Remove unnecessary processed foods with high sugar content from your diet
  5) Get checked for high blood pressure or abnormal cholesterol levels
• Organize a cooking class or demonstration focused on healthy, diabetes-friendly recipes. Invite a nutritionist or a dietitian to share their expertise and provide tips on managing blood sugar levels through proper nutrition.
• Show your support by wearing blue, the official color of diabetes awareness. Encourage your friends, family, and colleagues to do the same, or organize a workplace or school-wide dress code for the day.