World Diabetes Day 2023: Theme, History, Significance, Importance, Celebrations and Preventive Measures

Get excited for World Diabetes Day on November 14! The World Health Organization and the International Diabetes Federation established this day in 1991 to increase public awareness of diabetes. Since then, communities from all around the world have come together to celebrate and exchange experiences, knowledge, and tales about the disease on November 14 of each year. It is an opportunity for those who already have diabetes or who may develop it in the future to unite and support one another. World Diabetes Day is celebrated on 14 November. 

When your blood glucose, sometimes known as blood sugar, is too high, you develop diabetes. The primary energy source for the human body is glucose. The hormone insulin, which is released by the pancreas, converts food into energy that is then transported to the body’s cells. Insufficient insulin secretion results in blood glucose remaining unconverted and unable to be used by human cells as an energy source. This blood glucose level or high blood sugar is called diabetes. The importance of World Diabetes Day in our combined efforts to prevent, manage, and eventually find a cure for this chronic condition was reinforced by Dr. Sheetu Singh passion for bettering the lives of those who are affected by the disease. Her knowledge and professionalism also made a lasting impression. 

The Theme of World Diabetes Day 2023 

“Empowering Global Health” is the World Diabetes Day 2023 theme announced by WHO.

The theme also aims to inform and inspire people to call on their public health organizations and other international organizations to provide better opportunities, infrastructure, labor, and financial support to improve diabetes education to combine efforts with the World Health Organization and other organizations to meet the 2030 target for diabetes coverage. This includes:

• Diagnosis of 80% of people affected with diabetes.
• More control over blood pressure and glucose should be exercised by 80% of those with a diagnosis. 
• All individuals diagnosed with type 1 diabetes should have simple access to insulin and appropriate tools for managing their blood glucose levels. 

World Diabetes Day History 

Although diabetes is a disease, there is currently no long-term treatment. In 2006, World Diabetes Day was recognized by the UN. The International Diabetes Federation, with backing from the World Health Organization, created World Diabetes Day in 1991 in response to growing concerns about the health and financial impact that diabetes poses. Diabetes happens due to insufficient secretion of Insulin by the pancreas. Research was conducted to meet the body’s need for insulin secretion, and in 1921 Sir Frederick G. Banting (pictured), Charles H. Best, and JJR Macleod discovered insulin booster injection at the University of Toronto. James B. Collip refined the substance subsequently. To date, individuals with elevated blood glucose levels have received insulin injections as a medication. 

The “Blue Circle Logo” is used to designate World Diabetes Day campaigns. It was created in 2007, shortly after the day was formally recognized by the United Nations. Ever since the Blue Circle has come to represent the collective effort of the world’s diabetes communities to combat the rising number of diabetes cases. 

World Diabetes Day 2023 Significance 

World Diabetes Day was established by the World Health Organization and International Diabetes Federation in 1991. It was thought necessary to celebrate a day devoted only to diabetes in response to growing worries about the disease’s increasing threat to health. The resolution established November 14 as World Diabetes Day and acknowledged “the urgent need to pursue multilateral efforts to promote and improve human health and provide access to treatment and health-care education.”

• On World Diabetes Day 2023, WHO will address the obstacles to expanding access to diabetes medications and care, but more significantly, the ways in which these obstacles can be overcome. 
• On World Diabetes Day in 2023, the World Health Organization will run a number of awareness programs to help people understand the cause of diabetes as well as its prevention and control measures. 
• WHO conducts many education programs to create knowledge about diabetes.
• WHO also insists on treatment and medical facilities available nearby for diabetes check-ups for the patients. 
• Organizations fighting diabetes will offer free health examinations on World Diabetes Day in 2023. Getting regular checkups will help prevent diabetes. 
• Every year, the WHO expands the number of diabetes treatment centers.
• Diabetes is a preventable disease by maintaining physical exercise and a good diet. 

Why World Diabetes Day is Important 

1. Raises Awareness of Diabetes: The world community is reminded of the significance of increasing knowledge and awareness about diabetes on World Diabetes Day. it is an opportunity to reflect on the progress made in the diagnosis, prevention, and management of this chronic disease, and bring attention to the very real challenges that individuals with diabetes face every day. 

2. Encourages Preventative Measures: Research indicates that altering one’s lifestyle can help avoid or postpone the onset of type 2 diabetes. World Diabetes Day can serve as a forum to encourage these preventative practices, which include regular exercise, healthy eating habits, and maintaining a healthy weight. 

3. Supports Those Living with Diabetes: Diabetes type 1 or type 2 shouldn’t have to be a burden for anyone. Building support networks and addressing the stigma around diabetes in our communities are two opportunities presented by World Diabetes Day. This day also emphasizes the need for accessible, affordable healthcare that supports people’s ability to control their own health and builds global health systems. 

How to Celebrate World Diabetes Day 

1. Learn About Diabetes: On this World Diabetes Day, spend some time learning more about the disease. If you have any questions, speak with a doctor or nutritionist and educate yourself on the most recent findings regarding diabetes management.

2. Focus on Healthy Eating: As part of managing diabetes, focus on making healthier food choices. Eating fresh vegetables, whole grains, fruits, and lean meats can assist in keeping blood sugar levels in check while also providing essential nutrients. 

3. Plan an Activity: Physical activity is key for preventing complications and managing diabetes. Plan an active day with friends or family- go for a swim, play a game of basketball, or take a walk in the park. 

Preventive Measures to Manage Diabetes 

The International Diabetes Foundation estimates that 54.1 crore adults worldwide are at risk of type 2 diabetes. As such, it is urgent to address this risk by supporting awareness campaigns and high-quality diabetes education platforms that educate people on how to prevent and manage diabetes at an early stage. Among the preventative strategies for managing diabetes are: 

• Practice eating a small portion of a meal at one time.
• Avoid refined and sugar-carbohydrate intake.
• Include food and fibers that are low in Glycemic index.
• Develop the daily practice of exercising for at least half an hour.
• Quit smoking, which promotes insulin resistance.
• Monitor your blood cholesterol level (ideally less than 200). Lower than 100 for low-density lipoprotein, above 20 for high-density lipoprotein, and below 150 for triglycerides.
• Maintain appropriate control over your blood pressure, which ought to be 130/80 or lower.
• Get updated with diabetes control preventive tips.
• Encourage and promote the diabetes-related campaign to spread awareness to the needy. 
• Avoid intake of beverages and other aerated drinks with added sugar, which can raise the risk of type 2 diabetes, and make a habit of consuming ordinary water. 

FAQ’s 

When is World Diabetes Day?

Each year on November 14, the world celebrates World Diabetes Day. World Diabetes Day is scheduled for Tuesday, 2023.

What is the World Diabetes Day 2023 theme?

The theme designated for the 2023 World Diabetes Day is “Empowering Global Health.”

When did the UN officially recognize World Diabetes Day?

In 2006, World Diabetes Day was recognized by the UN.

When was the Insulin Injection found?

Insulin injection was found in 1921.