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URL: http://www.diabetesselfmanagement.com/blog/diabetes-news/what-were-reading-world-diabetes-day/print/

What We’re Reading: World Diabetes Day

Web Team

November 14, 2010

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What is World Diabetes Day?
Sunday, November 14, 2010 is World Diabetes Day. In 2007, the United Nations passed Resolution 61/225 which made World Diabetes Day a UN holiday. Every year, the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), every United Nations member state, and countless organizations and individuals around the world celebrate World Diabetes Day. Why this day? November 14 is the birthday of Frederick Banting, one of two scientists whose ideas led to the discovery of insulin in 1922.

The International Diabetes Federation and the World Health Organization founded World Diabetes Day in 1991 as a way to promote diabetes advocacy and awareness given the growing numbers of people with diabetes worldwide. In 2000, the number of people worldwide with diabetes was 170 million; today an estimated 285 million have diabetes. World Diabetes Day helps to keep the public informed of important developments, urge further action to find a cure, and keep the growing issue of diabetes in the public spotlight.

Today, World Diabetes Day sees many programs, events, sports activities, walks, races, and even monument lightings. So far, the IDF reaches one billion people worldwide in its campaign. To find out more about World Diabetes Day events near you, you can visit the IDF’s Event page here.

What is the blue circle?
The blue circle is the official logo of World Diabetes Day. Its color and shape both have positive meanings: blue being the color of the sky which all peoples share, and circles being symbols of life, health, and unity.

“Let’s take control of diabetes. Now.”
World Diabetes Day 2010 is part of the International Diabetes Federation’s Education and Prevention campaign, running from 2009 to 2013. This year’s theme is “Let’s take control of diabetes. Now.” This empowering message is meant to encourage everyone — with and without diabetes — to learn more and play a more proactive role in the prevention and treatment of diabetes. The overall goal of the International Diabetes Federation is to promote care, prevention, and a cure worldwide.

Additional resources and information
Want to learn more about how you can participate in World Diabetes Day? Explore the World Diabetes Day Web site.

Here is a behind the scenes look at how the International Diabetes Federation has been preparing for World Diabetes Day and their goals for this year.

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Take control of your health! The following online tools from the American Diabetes Association and the American Heart Assocation may help you identify areas of concern.

Note: these tests are specifically for Type 2 Diabetes and do not represent medical advice. If you are concerned about diabetes, please make an appointment with your physician.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) and National Eye Institute have released an informational pamphlet aimed specifically at eye health for everyone with diabetes:

“Watch out for your vision!”

Do you know your family’s diabetes history? Family history affects both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, making it important to know if diabetes runs in your family. The NIH has provided a handy new tool for you to fill out and share your family diabetes history.

My family health portrait

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