World Diabetes Day (WDD) is observed annually on November 14, commemorating the birth of Sir Frederick Banting, who co-discovered insulin. In 2024, the theme for WDD is “Breaking Barriers, Bridging Gaps,” which emphasizes the importance of effective diabetes management and aims to improve the quality of life for those affected by diabetes. In 2024, the theme ‘Breaking Barriers, Bridging Gaps’ underscores the critical importance of accessible, high-quality diabetes care, especially for underrepresented communities.
Significance of World Diabetes Day
World Diabetes Day serves as a critical platform for raising awareness about diabetes, a chronic condition affecting millions globally. The event is organized by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and the World Health Organization (WHO) and aims to educate the public about diabetes prevention, management, and treatment options. It highlights the growing prevalence of diabetes and its complications, advocating for better access to healthcare and resources for those living with the disease,
Diabetes is a chronic condition resulting from either insufficient insulin production by the pancreas or the body’s inability to use insulin effectively. Insulin is essential for regulating blood glucose levels, and without proper insulin function, blood sugar can rise uncontrollably, a condition known as hyperglycemia. Uncontrolled diabetes, particularly over time, can damage various body systems, especially the nerves and blood vessels. As per the Indian Council of Medical Research – India Diabetes (ICMR INDIAB) study published in 2023, the prevalence of diabetes is 10.1 crores.
Historical Context
Established in 1991, WDD became an official United Nations Day in 2006 through UN Resolution 61/225. The day aims to address the alarming rise in diabetes cases worldwide, which has significant implications for public health systems and individual well-being,
What are the main goals of World Diabetes Day 2024
1. Raising Awareness
Increase public understanding of diabetes as a critical global health issue and the importance of collective and individual actions to improve prevention, diagnosis, and management of the condition,
Ensuring Access to Care
Advocate for equitable, comprehensive, affordable, and quality treatment for all individuals diagnosed with diabetes. This includes addressing barriers that prevent effective management of the disease.
3. Promoting Global Diabetes Coverage Targets
Support the achievement of five global diabetes coverage targets set by WHO for 2030:
80% of people with diabetes diagnosed.
80% achieving good glycemic control.
80% maintaining good blood pressure control.
60% of individuals aged 40 and older receiving statins.
100% access to affordable insulin and blood glucose self-monitoring for type 1 diabetes patients.
Government of India’s Diabetes Prevention Initiatives
The Government of India has launched several proactive measures to tackle diabetes as part of the broader National Programme for Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NP-NCD) under the National Health Mission (NHM).
The Government of India, under the NP-NCD, provides technical and financial assistance to states and UTs through the National Health Mission (NHM).
Support is allocated based on state and UT proposals with a focus on prevention and management of diabetes and other non-communicable diseases.
743 District NCD Clinics and 6,237 Community Health Center NCD Clinics have been established across India to ensure local-level care and accessible services.
Emphasis is on training healthcare personnel, strengthening healthcare infrastructure, and facilitating early diagnosis and referral.
Implemented a population-based initiative that offers screening and control for common NCDs like diabetes, hypertension, and certain cancers. Targeting individuals over 30, screenings are a core part of the healthcare services provided at Ayushman Arogya Mandirs.
These centers promote preventive health practices, conduct screenings, and engage in community-based wellness initiatives.
Public awareness on diabetes is promoted through observance of national and international health days.
A range of media, including print, electronic, and social platforms, is used to ensure consistent community awareness and education.
Healthy lifestyle promotion includes guidance from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) on nutrition.
The Fit India Movement, led by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, and yoga programs from the Ministry of AYUSH encourage active and healthy lifestyles.
Under NP-NCD, states receive financial support for diabetes awareness programs as per their Program Implementation Plans.
In addition to preventive measures, the NP-NCD also offers financial assistance for purchasing glucometers and diabetes medications, as requested by states and UTs. The NHM’s Free Drugs Service Initiative provides free essential medicines, including insulin, to economically vulnerable groups.
Through the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP), quality generic medications, including insulin, are made available at affordable prices with state collaboration to ensure wider accessibility.
Addressing these challenges requires coordinated efforts from governments, healthcare providers, and communities worldwide. Strategies must focus on improving diagnosis rates, enhancing access to care, ensuring the affordability of medications, and fostering lifestyle changes through education and support systems. Only through such comprehensive approaches can the global diabetes coverage targets be realistically achieved by 2030.
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