The Antigua and Barbuda Diabetes Association (ABDA), in partnership with the South Leeward Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, is gearing up for the annual Diabetes Awareness March.
This year’s event, scheduled for Saturday, November 16, 2024, at 4:00 pm, promises a revitalized experience aimed at raising awareness about diabetes prevention and management. With the theme “Diabetes & Wellbeing,” the march seeks to focus on holistic health for individuals affected by or at risk of diabetes.
This year’s march will depart from the Rising Sun Grounds, just below the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre (SLBMC), and will travel through the streets of St. John’s, before returning to the starting point.
The primary objective of the Diabetes Awareness March is to raise public awareness about the importance of diabetes prevention and effective management strategies. By emphasizing both physical activity and community education, the organizers hope to inspire healthier lifestyles and greater understanding of diabetes’ impact.
Speaking to Observer, Dr. Monica Osborne-Stevens, a Family Medicine and Diabetes Specialist, shared details about the upcoming Diabetes Awareness Walk. “The Diabetes Awareness Walk is an annual event designed to raise awareness about the prevention and management of diabetes. Our goal is to highlight key strategies for preventing and managing diabetes. Over the years, the event has attracted over 100 participants, and we’re expecting an even larger turnout with the march this year.”
The medical adviser to the association said, “It will feature various groups walking to promote physical activity, the distribution of educational materials on diabetes, and plenty of opportunities for community engagement. Additionally, we have several other activities planned. On Wednesday, we’ll host a public lecture where individuals will share their personal experiences living with diabetes. We’ll also have a mental health expert on hand to discuss the emotional impact of managing the condition, along with a lot of useful information on diabetes care and management.”
On Thursday, a Student Health Expo will be held at the public library, where students from local schools are expected to participate in interactive sessions. Topics such as nutrition, understanding what diabetes is and its causes, as well as the importance of exercise will be covered.
Doctor Osborne-Stevens also stated, “We’re collaborating with the Heart and Stroke Foundation, who will also bring their mascot, Arter, to talk to the students about healthy living and maintaining a balanced lifestyle. We believe that by teaching children about health at a young age, we can help foster a generation of healthier adults”.
On Friday, the Antigua and Barbuda Diabetes Association in partnership with the Emergency Medical Services of Antigua and Barbuda will be offering free blood glucose screenings at both the East and West bus stations from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m.
According to the Pan American Health Organization, PAHO, Antigua and Barbuda has a 13 percent prevalence of diabetes, which means one in every eight persons has diabetes.
Official event T-shirts can be had at a cost of EC $45 contributing to the fundraising efforts that support diabetes education and resources.
