14 November: World Diabetes Day

Every year 14 November is observed as World Diabetes Day (WDD), a primary global awareness campaign focusing on diabetes. The need to create a day for the awareness of diabetes came in response to growing concerns about escalating health threats due to diabetes. As of now about 21,463 people have tested their risk of type 2 diabetes and despite such a high number of people suffering from it, there is little awareness about the condition and its effect on everyday life.

About World Diabetes Day

Background: The World Diabetes Day was created by International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1991, to create awareness about diabetes among common people. The day 14 November also marks the birth anniversary of Sir Frederick Banting, who co-discovered insulin along with Charles Best in 1922. While WDD was first created in 1991, the day became official United Nations Day in 2006.

Objective: To provide a platform to promote International Diabetes Federation (IDF) advocacy efforts throughout the year.

Symbol: WDD campaign is represented by a blue circle logo on a white background– the blue circle stands as the global symbol for diabetes awareness. The symbol was adopted after UN passed a resolution on diabetes in year 2007.

2019 Theme: Family and Diabetes. It focuses on raising awareness of impact that diabetes has on family and support network of those affected with the disease.

Month: Current Affairs - November, 2019