World Diabetes Day

World Diabetes Day History

World Diabetes Day (WDD) is an annual global health awareness campaign dedicated to spreading awareness about diabetes and its associated risks. The main objective of this observance is to educate people about the importance of effective diabetes prevention and management strategies, as well as promoting early diagnosis and appropriate care for those living with the condition. Various stakeholders, including health professionals, governments, non-governmental organizations, and individuals, participate in multiple campaigns and events to raise public awareness and garner support for the fight against diabetes.

The origin of World Diabetes Day dates back to 1991 when it was created by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and the World Health Organization (WHO) due to the alarming rise in diabetes cases globally. India, being the second most populous country in the world, has a rapidly increasing diabetes burden, currently ranking as the country with the second-highest number of people with diabetes, after China. The prevalence of diabetes in India has been attributed to various factors, including urbanization, sedentary lifestyles, unhealthy diets, and genetic predisposition, which further highlights the importance of raising awareness and promoting health education on diabetes prevention and management.

In India, World Diabetes Day is observed through various events and activities, including health camps, workshops, and seminars to provide information on diabetes care and prevention. It's crucial to remember that early diagnosis is key in managing diabetes, which is why free health check-ups and screening camps are organized. Schools, colleges, and other institutions are also encouraged to participate in spreading awareness and promoting a healthier lifestyle to combat the diabetes epidemic in the country. World Diabetes Day takes place annually on November 14, commemorating the birthday of Sir Frederick Banting, who discovered insulin in 1921, a breakthrough in diabetes management that has saved countless lives since.

World Diabetes Day facts

• The theme for World Diabetes Day in 2025 was Diabetes and well-being. In 2024 the theme was Breaking Barriers, Bridging Gaps. In 2023 the theme 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 prevalent in urban areas compared to rural areas. Rapid urbanization, westernization of diets, and increasingly sedentary lifestyles have contributed to the high rates of diabetes in cities.
• India has one of the highest rates of gestational diabetes in the world. About 4 million Indian women are affected by this condition annually, which can significantly impact maternal and newborn health.

In the News and Trending in India for World Diabetes Day

Top things to do in India 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 fundraising events to support diabetes research, patient care, and raise funds for underprivileged individuals who cannot afford diabetes-related treatments.
• Partner with local community organizations, NGOs, and government bodies to reach out to more people and create a larger impact in raising awareness about diabetes.