Diabetic Open Day teaches people more about diabetes
Community members of all ages could come and learn about everything diabetes-related.
A DIABETIC Open Day was held at the Alberton Hellenic Community Centre on November 10, where community members of all ages could come and learn about everything diabetes-related.
There were several speakers who presented educational slideshows about diabetes, and the audience participated in a Q and A to test their knowledge.
A variety of stalls from various organisations, such as hospitals and health businesses were also available and visitors could have their blood tested by qualified nurses and physicians to check their sugar levels.
Handy booklets, leaflets, freebies and products were on offer for those affected by diabetes.
After everyone learned a thing or two, there were a few lucky draws and all were invited to enjoy some refreshments together. It was a delightful, insightful Saturday morning.
Become aware of diabetes
The internationally-known medicine company, Novartis, shared some useful information about diabetes that everyone should know. Below follows a few facts.
Around 1.8 million people currently have diabetes in South Africa, with this number expected to top around 2.7 million by 2045, according to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF).
People who are directly or indirectly affected by this disease should make themselves aware of the common symptoms of diabetes, and encourage family members to be screened for diabetes. All families are potentially affected by diabetes, so all families should be aware of the signs, symptoms and risk factors of diabetes, to help detect it early.
Diabetes is a major cause of blindness, kidney failure, heart attacks, stroke and lower limb amputation. In 2016 alone, an estimated 1.6 million deaths were directly caused by diabetes.
Treatment of diabetes involves diet and physical activity along with blood glucose control, blood pressure control, foot care, screening and treatment for retinopathy (which causes blindness) and screening and treatment of diabetes-related kidney disease.
Importantly, family support in diabetes care has been shown to have a substantial effect in improving outcomes for people with diabetes.
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