World Diabetes Day

World Diabetes Day History

World Diabetes Day is a global awareness campaign with the goal of raising awareness about diabetes, its prevention, and management. The observance focuses on educating people about the importance of early diagnosis, promoting healthy lifestyles to prevent the disease, and supporting those living with diabetes. This annual initiative highlights the need for ongoing awareness, education, and research to reduce the impact of diabetes on individuals, families, and communities.

World Diabetes Day was first introduced in 1991 by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and the World Health Organization (WHO) as a response to the rapidly growing incidence of diabetes worldwide. In South Africa, diabetes is a significant health concern, with the country having one of the highest prevalence rates of the disease in the African region. According to Diabetes South Africa, over 4.5 million South Africans are estimated to have diabetes, with many more remaining undiagnosed. As such, World Diabetes Day activities in South Africa are crucial for raising awareness and promoting early detection, prevention, and management of the disease.

In South Africa, World Diabetes Day is observed through various activities such as educational workshops, public screenings for diabetes, and awareness campaigns on social media and other platforms. These events are organized by health organizations, medical professionals, and community groups, mobilizing people to take action against diabetes. World Diabetes Day is celebrated on 14th November annually and encourages South Africans to come together to prevent, treat, and manage this life-altering disease affecting millions in the country.

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.
• Poorly managed diabetes can lead to severe complications, such as kidney disease, heart disease, stroke, lower limb amputations, and blindness. South Africa has one of the highest rates of diabetes-related lower limb amputations globally.
• The economic burden of diabetes is significant, with the South African government spending approximately 1-2% of GDP on diabetes healthcare each year.

In the News and Trending in South Africa for World Diabetes Day

Top things to do in South Africa 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
• Approach local municipalities and prominent landmarks like bridges, buildings, or monuments to illuminate them with blue lights on World Diabetes Day. This eye-catching display will raise awareness about diabetes and serve as a visual reminder throughout the day.
• Start a local diabetes support group or connect with existing ones in your community. Organize regular meetings, where individuals with diabetes, their families, and caregivers can come together to share experiences, discuss challenges, and provide support.