World Diabetes Day (WDD) will be observed globally on Thursday to raise awareness about diabetes, a chronic condition affecting millions and advocating for equitable access to comprehensive, affordable, and high-quality care for all individuals diagnosed with diabetes. World Diabetes Day, observed on November 14 each year, has this year's theme, "Breaking Barriers, Bridging Gaps." It aims to promote equal access to quality care, reduce diabetes risks, and ensure comprehensive, affordable treatment for all those affected by diabetes. The day marks the world’s largest diabetes awareness campaign reaching a global audience of over 1 billion people in over 160 countries. The theme for WDD changes annually, often emphasizing crucial aspects like diet, exercise, mental health, or healthcare accessibility for those affected by diabetes.

WDD, created in 1991 by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and the World Health Organization (WHO), was established in response to growing global concerns about diabetes. In 2006, the United Nations officially recognized it as a global health threat. November 14 was chosen to honor the birthday of Sir Frederick Banting, who, alongside Charles Best, discovered insulin in 1921, transforming diabetes from a fatal disease into a manageable condition. WDD emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis, proper care, and lifestyle changes in managing the condition. WDD also serves as a platform for health organizations and advocates to call for policy changes that ensure accessible, affordable diabetes care, especially for vulnerable communities. 

 As diabetes cases continue to rise, WDD’s role in educating the public about prevention and promoting healthier lifestyles has never been more crucial in tackling the diabetes epidemic.  Pakistan has over 33 million diagnosed diabetics, 11 million with impaired glucose tolerance, and 8.9 million undiagnosed cases. There is strong evidence that an unhealthy food supply, including industrial trans fats in ghee, free sugars in sugary beverages, and bakery products, contributes to malnutrition, obesity, cardiovascular diseases, and diabetes, exacerbating the public health burden.  “We’ve developed poor dietary habits and sedentary lifestyles due to urbanization and aggressive marketing by processed food producers,” said Zubair Faisal Abbasi, advisor at the Centre for Governance and Public Accountability (CGPA).

Credit: Independent News Pakistan