There is a worldwide explosion of diabetes and developing countries like South Africa are the worst hit. The World Health Organisation (WHO) predicts that in South Africa, the numbers will triple in the next 15 years.
Although all groups are affected, those most at risk are the black community who are undergoing rapid lifestyle and cultural changes, and people of Indian descent who have a gene pool that makes them unusually susceptible to diabetes.
Research shows that approximately 4 to 6 million people in South Africa have diabetes and that most of these people are unaware that they have the condition.
Around the world, it has been shown that patient education and motivation reduces the cost of diabetes care as well as reducing the risk of serious diabetes-related complications, dramatically. (Ref: Diabetes South Africa)
Hillcrest Private Hospital will be hosting a diabetes awareness morning on Wednesday 16 November, from 9am till noon, with activities including free talks, displays, information stands, lucky draws, as well as free blood sugar and blood pressure screening.
Talks will be given during the morning at the following times:
9am Dr F Amod, neurologist, Diabetes related problems that affect feet and how to care for them
9.3oam Dr B Naidoo, physician, Diabetes
10am Megan White, dietician, Diet and diabetes
Contact Tricia on 031 768 8009 for more information. All are welcome.
For a personal view of living with diabetes, click here.