World Diabetes day will be observed on November 14, 2012. Photo:supplied

It was agreed that this disease poses severe risks for families, member states and the entire world.  This realisation has led to the observance of a collaborative effort of the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the International Diabetes Federation (IDF).  

The IDF estimated that Diabetes caused 4.6 million deaths and cost at least $465 billion in 2011.  These shocking numbers are predicted to increase by the year 2030, when 552 million people will have the disease. Therefore, all member states are being asked to be on board to raise awareness and put a stop to this epidemic. 

This year, the theme is “Diabetes: Protect our Future.”  The BVI Diabetes Association  will be carrying out a number of activities and will be partnering with the Ministry of Health - Health Promotion Unit, the Health Services Authority Committee for NCDs and  Community Health Services in an effort to work together for a cause while we seek to combat the scourge of Diabetes in the future.

Members of the public are encouraged to wear blue on World Diabetes Day, Wednesday 14^th November, 2012, to show their support in the fight against diabetes.

ACTIVITIES TO CELEBRATE NOVEMBER 2012 AS HEALTH MONTH AND

WORLD DIABETES DAY 14^TH NOVEMBER

In collaboration with the Ministry of Health, Health Promotion Unit and the

BVI Health Services Authority NCD Committee / Community Health Services

Friday 2^nd Nov.  -  Lighting of the Blue World Diabetes Day Circle – Sir Olva Georges Plaza @ 6:30 pm 

Sunday 11^th Nov. – Church Service, Church of God (Holiness) Baughers Bay – 11:00 am

5^th  – 12^th  Nov.    – School Visits 1^st & 2^nd District – Project Healthy Lifestyles 

Monday 12^th Nov. – Isabella Morris Primary School visit – 1:00 pm 

12^th  – 14^th  Nov. – Morning Devotions ZBVI Radio @ 5:30 am 

Wednesday 14^th Nov. – Launch of the First District Branch of the BVI Diabetes Association @ 5:30 pm – Capoon’s Bay Recreational Field

Friday 16^th Nov. – Health Fair in collaboration with Community Health Services – Diabetic Screening,  Health Awareness Day

Saturday 24^th Nov. – Health Walk in collaboration with Community Health Services &

                                 Nevis Alliance Progressive Society (NAPS) 5:00 a.m. - Road Town

                                 Market to Ebenezer Thomas Primary School and back to Noel Lloyd

                                 Positive Action Movement Park

2^nd December – Appreciation Luncheon at Maria’s by the Sea, 1:00 p.m.