Let’s Talk About Diabetes!

World Diabetes Day 2020 takes place on Saturday, 14th November and the theme for this year is The Nurse and Diabetes.

This campaign aims to raise awareness around the crucial role that nurses play in supporting people living with diabetes.

Diabetes occurs when a person has high levels of glucose in their blood, which can lead to serious health issues when left untreated.

Diabetes in South Africa has become endemic over the last few years, with so many more people being diagnosed with this potentially serious health condition. What’s more alarming is how many are living with it, totally unaware of their diagnosis.

Diabetes is never ‘mild’; it is a serious health condition that needs to be treated accordingly. If the high level of glucose is left untreated, it can cause complications such as heart disease, amputation, blindness and kidney disease, to name a few. These complications can be prevented, however early detection is crucial!

The signs and symptoms of diabetes include the following:

• Blurred vision
• Unusual thirst
• Frequent urination
• Unusual weight loss
• Extreme fatigue or lack of energy
• Frequent or recurring infections

The worrying thing, though, is that many people who have Type 2 diabetes may show no symptoms at all and that’s why it’s important to get checked regularly.

Diabetes is a pandemic. Today, more than 425 million people have diabetes. By 2045, that could rise to 629 million. 79% of people with diabetes live in low and middle income households / countries. Yet, there’s something we all can do about Type 2 diabetes, no matter where we live. Regular exercise helps keep blood sugar levels stable, reduces the risk of developing chronic diseases and improves well-being. Take steps to prevent diabetes by joining the upcoming walk, taking place in Durban.

Each year, the International Diabetes Federation marks World Diabetes Day with a global campaign promoting diabetes awareness and advocacy. The Global Diabetes Walk is the WDF’s contribution to this important campaign. In an effort to keep the spirit and the event alive of the annual Durban Wellness Festival and Global Diabetes Walk alive, they will be asking all loyal supporters to put on their walking/running shoes and support the event, as this year they will “go virtual”! You can walk anywhere, even in your local neighbourhood, just wear something blue! For more enquiries about the event, contact mw.nerve@mweb.co.za.

Before you head off and do this walk, or, while on route, pop into Park Boulevard Shopping Centre’s Pharmacy at Spar or The Local Choice Intersite Pharmacy at Springfield Retail Centre to make enquiries about getting yourself tested – before it is too late!

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