Updated on November 14, 2023
INTRODUCTION: DIABETES AWARENESS MONTH 2023
In the month of November, Revival Research Institute along with the medical fraternity would like to highlight the importance of diabetes as an emerging global epidemic and raising diabetes awareness month. In the US alone, 37.3 million people have diabetes (that is a whopping 11.3% of the total population!) according to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control & Prevention). Not only this but one-third of the US population is believed to have prediabetes which is simply mindboggling. The WHO (World Health Organization) believes that diabetes is the main factor leading to blindness, stroke, kidney failure, heart attack, and lower limb amputation in current times.
These numbers are huge and continue to erode the quality of life of the masses without many being aware if they even have this condition in the first place. With such a track record, diabetes should be tackled immediately.
NOVEMBER IS DIABETES AWARENESS MONTH 2023
November 2023 is Diabetes Awareness Month, and it revolves around November 14th — the date we celebrate World Diabetes Day 2023. World Diabetes Day was chosen to be this day specifically because it coincides with the birthday of Dr. Frederick Banting. In fact, the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine 1923 was awarded jointly to Frederick Grant Banting and John James Rickard Macleod “for the discovery of insulin” helping save thousands of lives and countless diabetics manage their symptoms.
Insulin had been in commercial production for a year by the end of 1923. Diabetic patients who received insulin shots were able to recover from comas, resume eating carbohydrates (in moderation), and found that they had been given a new lease on life!
WHAT YOU COULD DO ON DIABETES AWARENESS MONTH 2023
Understanding Diabetes Management
First and foremost, let us tackle the elephant in the room — diabetes is a manageable condition. Some of the ways through which that may be possible are:
- Maintaining a healthy diet and body weight (many individuals with type 2 diabetes are overweight or obese, which is also a risk factor for heart disease)
- Avoiding tobacco
- Regular physical activity
While these methods are no sure-shot way to prevent diabetes they can, however, delay or sometimes prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes.
Also read: Is Falling Asleep After Eating Sugar A Sign Of Diabetes?
Adopting The Colors & Symbol
The symbol chosen to represent diabetes for Diabetes Awareness Month 2023 is a blue circle. We can display this symbol in public places or on our social media handles to raise awareness among the general public. Start conversations, talk about your experiences and reach out.
Participating In Awareness Walks
One healthy way to celebrate Diabetes Awareness Month 2023 is to organize or take part in preexisting awareness walks. On your walk, you may wear blue clothing to further raise the cause.
Call To Action For Policymakers
You can participate in World Diabetes Day 2023 by sending a letter to your national health minister or Permanent Mission to the United Nations in Geneva. Request that they allocate more resources to help achieve the World Health Organization’s (WHO) diabetes coverage targets by 2030. This is an important step towards combatting diabetes and improving global health.
Donating To Charities
Although it has become common in all societies, diabetes is especially prevalent in low and middle-income societies. Donating to charities that work especially in areas where diabetes is common could prove to be an excellent way to save countless lives.
Getting Yourself & Your Loved Ones Tested
What better way to make the most of your day on World Diabetes Day, in fact, Diabetes Awareness Month 2023, than to get yourself or your loved ones screened for diabetes if they do not have it?
Detection of diabetes during its initial stages is very important and during Diabetes Awareness Month 2023, we should focus on making screening and testing more accessible. Early identification of diabetes enables effective management, reducing complications and improving quality of life.
People who already have it can perform some non-invasive tests to evaluate their heart health besides their HBA1c tests. Here are some of the tests that are commonly used to check if the heart is functioning well:
- Electrocardiogram (EKG/ECG): This is a test to measure the heart’s electrical rhythmic activity.
- Echocardiogram (Echo): A safe and painless ultrasound test that uses sound waves to examine the heart’s structure and motion. The echo helps the doctor evaluate the thickness of the heart muscles and the efficiency of the heart’s function.
- Exercise Stress Test (Treadmill Test or Exercise Test): This test helps determine how well the heart can handle physical activity and if the blood supply within the major arteries is reduced.
Invasive tests may be required depending on the severity of the symptoms and the patient’s individual assessment from their doctor. These include:
- Nuclear Stress Test
- Coronary Angiogram
Enrolling In Clinical Research
Participating in clinical research trials is a great way to contribute towards a noble cause on Diabetes Awareness Month 2023. Through active participation, one may not only help themselves but millions of others. Their contribution could pave the way for future treatments that could better manage or even cure diabetes in the future.
Revival is currently conducting multiple type 2 diabetes clinical trials for individuals diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. These clinical trials aim to help people better manage their condition and also provide access to qualified physicians along with financial compensation. By participating in our clinical trials, you can contribute to this important cause while receiving the best possible care and support.
TAKEAWAY
In conclusion, as we commemorate Diabetes Awareness Month 2023, it is important to raise awareness on individual and collective levels about diabetes and its effects. Elevated blood sugar levels, hypertension, dyslipidemia, obesity, and insulin resistance happen collectively and can amplify the risk. The month’s central theme revolves around “Access to Care” which would enable early detection and intervention.
By promoting awareness, encouraging screenings, and adopting a healthy lifestyle, we can help ourselves and our loved ones safeguard their health amid the complex landscape of diabetes.
