Every year on November 14th, the world observes World Diabetes Day, raising awareness about a condition affecting over 540 million adults globally. This date marks the birthday of Sir Frederick Banting, who co-discovered insulin in 1921—a breakthrough that transformed diabetes from a death sentence into a manageable condition.
It is a global initiative led by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and the WHO (world health organisation)
The 2024-2026 theme, “Diabetes and Wellbeing,” emphasises the importance of holistic care that addresses not just physical health but also mental and emotional wellness. Living with diabetes requires constant management, and this theme highlights the need for accessible support systems and patient centred care.
This year’s campaign also emphasises workplace wellness, encouraging employers to create spaces where employees are encouraged to move more, eat healthier and openly talk about their challenges. Regular physical activity and balanced meals can go a long way to protect your health.
Key Facts About Diabetes:
One in ten adults worldwide has diabetes: According to the IDF, 540 million adults are living with diabetes, and the number is expected to rise to 643 million by 2030 if no action is taken
Upto 80% of cases are type 2 diabetes and can be largely prevented through healthier lifestyle choices
Sleep and stress can directly affect blood sugar: lack of sleep and chronic stress can raise cortisol levels, in turn leading to increased blood glucose. This is because the body finds it harder to use insulin effectively.
World Diabetes Day provides us with an opportunity to raise awareness about the disease, so we can create lasting changes for all those who are affected.
What steps are you taking to reduce your diabetes risk or support someone living with this condition?
What a crucial message! Diabetes care is about **total wellbeing**—mind, body, and everyday lifestyle—as World Diabetes Day reminds us. The emphasis on emotional support and workplace wellness is incredibly empowering. Small actions like increasing physical activity, eating a balanced diet, and managing stress can have a significant impact, as one in ten adults are impacted. For yourself or a loved one, what healthy habit are you forming today?
Small but consistent changes are the key. Having balanced meals with a combination of protein, antioxidants, fiber and carbs. Staying active throughout the day, taking breaks between work for short walks, and engaging in any form of exercise for at least 30 minutes a day. Limiting sugary foods and drinks.
Diabetic patients needs to look after their diets but more importantly persons who are not diabetic patients but have higher risk of becoming one should be very cautious with their diet plans. We often hear people saying if your dad is diabetic patient you will be one too in days to come. To change that phrase we need to reflect on ourselves and on our diets specially.
Very informative. Workplace wellness is extremely important, yet most of the time, employees are treated like machines, with little regard for their basic human needs. Encouraging short breaks and movement around the office can help reduce stress and improve overall health. Since diabetes affects the body as a whole, lifestyle modification is crucial. Maintaining a balanced diet that is low in carbohydrates and high in fibre can make a significant difference.
World Diabetes Day truly reminds us how awareness and small lifestyle changes can make a big difference. I love that this year’s theme focuses on overall wellbeing, not just numbers.
A very informative article. You’ve effectively highlighted the global burden of diabetes and the importance of this year’s theme, “Diabetes and Wellbeing.” The emphasis on holistic management including mental health, lifestyle modification, and workplace-based interventions is clinically relevant and often overlooked in routine care.
I especially liked the focus on workplace wellness and the reminder that simple habits like better sleep, staying active, and mindful eating can prevent most Type 2 cases. A timely reminder that diabetes management extends beyond glycemic control to improving overall quality of life and long-term outcomes.
Exercising (muscle training) for avoiding insulin resistance, yoga for keeping hormones level balanced. Eating healthy and avoiding all forms of refined sugar, avoiding late night snacking, cutting off alcohol consumption are few steps that can help to keep one healthy.
By keeping a strict check on ‘carbohydrates’ intake, one can regulate blood sugar level in the body and also, the body weight can be kept in proper range. Physical activity- exercise, walk, yoga, etc. can help significantly in maintaining body weight and keeping blood sugar level at the required level.
Diabetes care is about **total wellbeing**—mind, body, and everyday lifestyle—as World Diabetes Day reminds us. The emphasis on emotional support and workplace wellness is incredibly empowering. 
Small actions like increasing physical activity, eating a balanced diet, and managing stress can have a significant impact, as one in ten adults are impacted. For yourself or a loved one, what healthy habit are you forming today? 