The International Diabetes Federation (IDF), with support from the World Health Organization (WHO), established World Diabetes Day in 1991 as a response to growing concerns about the threat posed by diabetes. In 2007, the UN General Assembly officially adopted the 14th of November as World Diabetes Day.

Why the 14th of November?

This day was chosen to commemorate the birthday of Sir Frederick Banting, a physician and scientist who discovered insulin along with Charles Best in 1922. (Banting FG et. al. 1922. Canadian Medical Association Journal 12:141-146).

Why is this important?

Diabetes is a chronic disease characterized by high glucose concentration in the blood (hyperglycemia). This condition occurs because the pancreas does not produce enough insulin (a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels) or when the body cannot effectively use the insulin.

Uncontrolled blood glucose levels or diabetes could lead to severe and fatal complications like cardiovascular diseases, kidney failure, nerve damage, blindness, lower limb amputation, and more. Since diabetes is also a significant health issue in Malaysia, affecting one out of six adults, all awareness efforts, educational programs, personal actions, and research can make a difference.

What can I do?

For the first step, let’s tackle it ourselves. It can be easy to neglect our health, but don’t wait for someone else to do it for you. Start by making an appointment to screen your health.