Diabetes affects individuals at all stages of life, from childhood to older adulthood. This year’s World Diabetes Day, observed on November 14, carries the theme “Diabetes across life stages,” emphasizing the necessity for integrated care, supportive environments, and policies that enhance health, dignity, and self-management for all those living with diabetes.
The World Health Organization (WHO) campaign aims to underscore that diabetes prevention and care initiatives must span various life stages. It stresses that supporting well-being and self-care is crucial for empowering individuals with diabetes throughout their lives. World Diabetes Day serves to raise awareness of diabetes as a significant global public health issue.
In 2022, WHO member states endorsed five global diabetes coverage targets to be reached by 2030: 80% of individuals with diabetes should be diagnosed; 80% of those diagnosed should achieve good glycemic control; 80% should manage their blood pressure effectively; 60% of diabetes patients aged 40 and older should receive statin therapy; and 100% of individuals with type 1 diabetes should have access to affordable insulin and blood glucose self-monitoring.
As the world focuses on these objectives, it is paramount that strategies incorporate all life stages to ensure effective diabetes management and care.
