WHO (World Health Organization) estimates that more than 346 million people worldwide have diabetes. This number is likely to more than double by 2030 without intervention. Almost 80 per cent of diabetes deaths occur in low-and middle-income countries.
Started by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and WHO, World Diabetes Day raises global awareness of diabetes, its escalating rates around the world and how to prevent the illness in most cases.
Day was first commemorated on November 14, 2007, and is observed annually. Day is linked to the birthday of Frederick Banting who, along with Charles Best, was instrumental in the discovery of insulin in 1922, a life- saving treatment for diabetes patients.
It was introduced in 1991 by the International Diabetes Federation and the World Health Organization in response to the alarming rise of diabetes around the world.
World Diabetes Day is a campaign that features a new theme chosen by the International Diabetes Federation each year to address issues facing the global diabetes community.
Each year, World Diabetes Day is centred on a theme related to diabetes.
Topics that are covered include diabetes and human rights, diabetes and lifestyle, diabetes and obesity, diabetes in the disadvantaged and the vulnerable, diabetes in children and adolescents.
It is also hoped that the increased awareness will lead to more resources to fight the causes of diabetes and help fund research into improved treatment options.
Different organizations arrange events at international, national and local levels. Events include conferences, workshops and seminars for health and public policy professionals. The distribution of information to encourage at risk individuals to be screened for diabetes. Events to highlight diabetes in local and national media, including television, newspapers and Internet publications.
Governments, non-governmental organizations and private businesses are encouraged to increase awareness of the disease, particularly among the general population and the media.
The campaign draws attention to issue of paramount importance to the diabetes world and keeps diabetes firmly in the public spotlight.