HISTORICALLY, World Diabetes Day was first introduced in 1991 by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and the World Health Organisation (WHO).
It was established in response to the increasing number of people living with diabetes around the world.
The date, 14 November, was selected to honour the birthday of Sir Frederick Banting, who, along with Charles Best, played a major role in the discovery of insulin in 1921. Insulin is a life-saving hormone that helps control blood sugar levels and has greatly improved the lives of people with diabetes.
In 2006, the United Nations officially recognised World Diabetes Day. Since then, it has become a major international health awareness campaign observed in many countries.
World Diabetes Day has great importance in protecting publichealth. Its main purposes include: Raising awareness: educating people about diabetes, its symptoms, causes and risk factors.
Promoting early diagnosis: encouraging people to check their blood sugar regularly and seek medical advice; Preventing diabetes: promoting healthy eating, regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy body weight; Encouraging proper treatment: highlighting the importance of medicines, insulin, regular check-ups and medical guidance; Preventing complications: creating awareness about serious complications such as heart disease, kidney problems, eye damage and nerve damage; Supporting patients: encouraging families, communities, and healthcare professionals to support people living with diabetes.