Creating awareness for World Diabetes Day 2023

The theme of the World Diabetes Day 2023 is “Know your risk, Know your response".

This year, the slogan focuses on the importance of knowing your risk of developing type 2 diabetes to help delay or prevent the occurrence of diabetes and related complications. The theme also highlights the importance of having access to the right information and care to ensure effective management and treatment of diabetes and related complications. According to the latest report from the Non-Communicable Disease (NCD) https://files.aho.afro.who.int/afahobckpcontainer/production/files/Mauritius-Non-Communicable-Diseases-Survey-2021.pdf, in the Mauritian population aged 25-74 years was 19.9% : 21.6% in men and 18.5% in women have diabetes. Uncontrolled diabetes increases the risk of severe health complications such as heart diseases, renal impairment, eye problems and damaged arteries.

There are several risk factors that predisposes a person to develop type 2 diabetes. These are:

• Family history: Your risk of developing diabetes increases if you have a parent or sibling with diabetes.
• Weight: Obesity increases your risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
• Age: The risk of developing type 2 diabetes increases with age.
• Inactivity: Physical inactivity can contribute to weight gain and insulin resistance.
• Gestational diabetes: Women who have had diabetes during pregnancy are at increased risk.

Know how to respond?:
In many cases, lifestyle changes such as healthy eating habits and regular physical activity can help lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

• Diet: Choose whole grains, lean proteins, and plenty of fruits and vegetables. Limit sugars and saturated fats such as cream, cheese, butter.
• Losing weight: Keep your weight under control. Lose extra weight.
• Physical activity: Limit inactivity and spend more time moving. Aim for at least 30 minutes or more of moderate-intensity activity daily such as brisk walking, swimming, jogging or cycling for a total of at least 150 minutes a week.
• Monitor: Look out for possible signs of diabetes such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, slow healing wounds, blurred vision and lack of energy. If you have any of these symptoms or belong to a high-risk group, consult a healthcare professional.