"At some point in the future, history will demand an explanation for why we sleepwalked into this global catastrophe" - International Diabetes Federation (IDF) Turning the mountain blue is part of an international call to action led by the IDF and supported by Oz Healthcare Communications in South Africa. The campaign, using the colour blue, is aimed at highlighting important issues about diabetes, encouraging the public to get screened for diabetes and emphasizes the fact that this "silent killer" can be prevented, managed and treated.
As part of the run up to World Diabetes Day ‘Blue Lightings' will occur in close to 100 countries around the world where monuments and well known sights will be lit up to show solidarity and support for the campaign. Last year's campaign saw 1036 monuments and buildings being lit up - an extraordinary international response. 2011 is expected to be even bigger with our very own Table Mountain being lit for the third year in a row.
The Table Mountain event has been made possible by Oz Healthcare Communications and is part of their ongoing commitment to educating the public around diabetes and partnering in the fight against the disease.
According to Lynne Zurnamer, Managing Director of Oz Healthcare Communications, "Diabetes, known as ‘the silent killer', affects millions of lives each year and is a disease that needs extensive awareness in South Africa." Every 8 seconds someone somewhere in the world dies from diabetes. Closer to home, South African's should strive to be aware of the risks, symptoms and complications of diabetes and understand why early detection is crucial in managing the disease.
The key messages for this year's campaign are:
- Go and get screened
- Know the diabetes risks and know the warning signs
- Know how to manage diabetes and who to turn to
- Know how to take control of your diabetes
In 2011, 346 million people live with diabetes and 4.6 million deaths are due to diabetes Diabetes currently affects 346 million people worldwide and is expected to affect 380 million by 2025.
By 2025, the largest increases in diabetes prevalence will take place in developing countries.
Each year a further 7 million people world-wide develop diabetes.
Each year 3.8 million deaths are attributable to diabetes. An even greater number die from cardiovascular disease made worse by diabetes-related lipid disorders and hypertension.
Every 8 seconds a person dies from diabetes-related causes.
Every 10 seconds two people develop diabetes.
Diabetes is the fourth leading cause of global death by disease
At least 50% of all people with diabetes are unaware of their condition. In some countries this figure may reach 80%.
Up to 80% of type 2 diabetes is preventable by adopting a healthy diet and increasing physical activity.
Diabetes is the largest cause of kidney failure in developed countries and is responsible for huge dialysis costs.
How can the media help?
Media coverage about diabetes is believed to have saved countless lives. Do your bit for diabetes and spread the word and call to action for all South Africans to be screened.
Source : Sapa
