WORLD DIABETES DAY

November 14 marks World Diabetes Day,a time dedicated to raising awareness about a condition that affects millions of lives around the globe.It’s a day to reflect on the challenges, the triumphs, and the daily resilience of those living with diabetes,as well as a reminder of the importance of taking charge of our own health. As Queens of Influence,it’s crucial that we prioritizeourwell-being,not just for ourselves, but for the communities we lead and inspire.

TheGrowingImpactofDiabetes

Diabetes is a chronic condition that occurs when the body cannot produce or properly use insulin, a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels.There are two main types:Type1, often diagnosed in children and young adults, and Type2, which is more common in adults and often linked to lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, and weight.

Globally,over 537 million adults were living with diabetes in 2021,and that number is projected to rise to 643 million by 2030.In Africa alone, the number of adults living with diabetesis estimated at 24million,a figure expected to nearly double by 2045 if we don’t take proactive measures.The rapid rise in cases is awake-up call for us all to pay attention to our health, understand the risks,and make informedchoices about our lifestyle.

RecognizingtheSymptomsofDiabetes

High blood sugar,or hyperglycemia,is one of the key symptoms of diabetes.It occurs when there is too much glucose in the bloodstream, often because the body isn’t producing enough insulin or is unable to use insulin effectively. Being aware of the signs can help in early detection and management of diabetes.