World Diabetes Day 2016

Last Updated on November 15, 2016

World Diabetes Day 2016

  • World Diabetes day is celebrated on November 14 every year.
  • It is observed to provide global awareness on increasing diabetes complications and treatment.
  • The theme of the 2016 World Diabetes Day is ‘Eyes on Diabetes’ – focusing on the importance of early diagnosis and treatment of diabetes.
  • Diagnosis of diabetes at an earlier stage would help combat all the complications that would arise, if otherwise left unaware.

World Diabetes Day 2016 : (Short Essay)

Being one of the most common diseases in today’s world, ‘diabetes’ is on spotlight today. November 14 is recognized as the World Diabetes Day to provide global awareness, by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF). The observation of this day was first launched in 1991 by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the IDF. The rapid increase of diabetes patients around the world is the reason for this day to be observed every year.

2016 World Diabetes Day Theme

Usually, the IDF initiates various activities and materials regarding diabetes awareness every year. The theme of the 2016 World Diabetes Day is ‘Eyes on Diabetes’. This year, it has focused on promoting the importance of early diagnosis of type 2 diabetes and treatment measures for reducing the risk of complications.

World Diabetes Day 2016 : (Brief Essay)

According to world reports in 2015, more than 415 million adults are affected with diabetes and this number would possible expected to increase in the coming years. In India, diabetes is a growing burden as more than 20 lakh people are screened for diabetes every year. According to a survey, one in two adults is undiagnosed for diabetes and this remains a major threat to the problem. There is possibility for many people to live for a longer period without even aware of their condition – particularly people with type 2 diabetes. This is why this year’s theme stresses on having an eye on diabetes for greater good.

Early diagnosis

Physicians believe that up to 70 percent of type 2 diabetes cases could be possibly prevented or even delayed with a healthier lifestyle. However, today’s modern lifestyle with poor nutrition and lesser physical activity leads to increase in this problem. Particularly, in many countries, this problem is getting diagnosed among children. This diagnosis of type 2 diabetes in children has a potential risk of becoming a global health concern as it might lead to serious health-related outcomes. This is why early diagnosis and awareness about treating it has become a necessary.

Why undiagnosed Diabetes is a Threat?

Since one in two people remain undiagnosed, there is more susceptibility for complications in their health condition. Undiagnosed diabetes could lead to substantial disability and even premature death in some cases. Delayed diagnosis of diabetes in many countries is the reason for kidney problems, cardiovascular diseases, vision impairment and lower-limb amputation among diabetes patients. Screening for diabetes would help mitigate the complications at an early stage. It also benefits effective management of diabetes and ensures optimal health.

Thus, early detection and screening for diabetes would lead to timely treatment for diabetic patients. Such diagnosis will prevent future complications. This is why 2016 world diabetes day is celebrated worldwide today to raise awareness among millions of people including children and adults, who are prone to diabetes risks but unaware of it. This World Diabetes Day brings together common people with healthcare professionals, decision-makers and media, highlighting the importance of this day.