Empowering Lives on World Diabetes Day: Understanding, Preventing, and Managing Diabetes

Uncontrolled blood sugar causes diabetes. Increasing sugar levels can cause serious health problems. Patients with diabetes are at increased risk of developing many other health problems over time. Diabetes has emerged as a major health risk in the last few decades. People of all ages, from children to youth and adults to the elderly, are being found victims of this disease. According to statistics, more than 500 million people worldwide are suffering from diabetes and this number is expected to more than double to 130 crores in the next 30 years. World Diabetes Day is celebrated every year to make people aware to reduce the risk of diabetes. But do you know who started celebrating Diabetes Day and when, as well as how to celebrate Diabetes Day? Let us know the history, importance, and theme of this year’s World Diabetes Day.

When is World Diabetes Day celebrated?

World Diabetes Day is celebrated every year on 14 November. Diabetes is a serious disease, which can be fatal in some situations. Diabetes Day is celebrated every year with a special theme to make people aware of diabetes at the global level.

History of Word Diabetes Day

International Diabetes Foundation first started celebrating this day by realizing the need to make people aware of the prevention of diabetes. In 1991, the United Nations decided to celebrate World Diabetes Day all over the world.

Why is World Diabetes Day celebrated only on 14th November?

In 1992, Sir Frederick Banting, along with Charles Best, discovered insulin. Sir Frederick Banting’s birthday is celebrated on 14 November. In such a situation, Diabetes Day started being celebrated on the occasion of his birthday to remember Sir Frederick Banting for his achievement of discovering insulin.

First diabetic patient

Even though the decision to celebrate Diabetes Day globally was taken in 1991, the first diabetes patient was found decades ago. The first diabetes patient was found in Egypt in 1550 BC. This disease was first identified in Egypt.

Theme and Significance of World Diabetes Day 2024

Every year Diabetes Day has a special theme. This year the theme of Diabetes Day 2024 is ‘Access to Diabetes Care’. This means paying attention to the care of diabetic patients.

Importance of World Diabetes Day

The purpose of celebrating this day is to spread awareness about diabetes so that one can know about the symptoms and treatment of diabetes. Along with this, people also have to get information about whether they have healthcare facilities to fight diabetes or not and prepare them to fight the disease.

Challenges and Moving Forward

Let us tell you that these counters providing free insulin will work daily from 9 am to 5 pm. Apart from this, the insulin dispensing counter will also provide written advice in Hindi and English for safe transportation and storage of insulin vials. Which will be given to all the patients at the time of medicine distribution. Patients who are likely to travel long distances will also be provided with frozen ice packs to safely carry insulin vials at the recommended temperature at home.

Note that the prescribing doctor will mention how many vials will be provided to that patient, and the center will provide them. Initially, insulin vials will be issued for a treatment period of one month, which can be extended to 2-3 months in the future. This facility is being started for all diabetes patients undergoing treatment at AIIMS, irrespective of their age.

No matter the season and time, diabetic patients have to take special care of themselves. Increasing the blood sugar level of diabetic patients can be dangerous. They have to take care of their diet even in winter. Let us know what kind of diet a diabetic patient can take in winter.

Ragi

Ragi is a healthy and nutritious option for diabetic patients. Due to its low glycemic index, it helps in controlling sugar. It contains abundant amounts of fiber, protein, and vitamins, which are beneficial for health. Consuming ragi porridge, roti, or dosa can be beneficial for health.

Spinach

Spinach contains folic acid, which can help in keeping blood sugar and blood pressure under control. Diabetic patients can include it in their diet.

Ashwagandha

Many medicinal properties present in Ashwagandha can increase the body’s defense and help in controlling blood sugar levels. Consumption of Ashwagandha can also help in reducing stress.

Lukewarm water and lemon water

Drink lukewarm water several times throughout the day. Lemon water also helps in fulfilling the needs of your body and will also be helpful in controlling diabetes.

Sweet Potato

A very popular vegetable Sweet potato has a low glycemic index, which keeps the blood sugar level of the body under control. Sweet potatoes are rich in fiber and vitamin C, which are beneficial for health.