On 14th November every year, we observe the world diabetes day to raise awareness about the growing prevalence of diabetes and its severe health impacts.
Globally, diabetes has increased significantly, with 422 million adults living with the disease in 2014, up from 108 million in 1980.
This rise is driven by factors such as obesity and unhealthy lifestyles, especially in low and middle-income countries. Diabetes is a major cause of blindness, kidney failure, heart attack, stroke, and lower limb amputation.
However, it can be prevented or managed through a healthy diet, regular physical activity, and avoiding tobacco.
Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial as half of those affected remain undiagnosed, particularly with type 2 diabetes, which can often be prevented through lifestyle changes.
World Diabetes Day serves as a global platform for education, advocacy, and promoting better access to treatment to combat this silent killer.
Authors: Ritah Namusoosa1*, Hannington Katumba2
Institutional affiliation: 1Uganda Public Health Fellowship Program-Laboratory Leadership Program; Uganda National Institute of Public Health; Ministry of Health Kampala, Uganda, 2Uganda Public Health Fellowship Program-Field Epidemiology Training Program; Uganda National Institute of Public Health; Ministry of Health Kampala, Uganda
Correspondence *Tel: +256785842878 email: rnamusoosa@uniph.go.ug