SIMPSON M
As Uganda joins the global community in celebrating World Diabetes Day 2024, Kabale District hosted this year’s event under the theme, “Diabetes and Well-Being.” The focus was on ensuring appropriate access to diabetes care and support, allowing everyone with diabetes the opportunity to live well.
Rukungiri Health Educator Alban Natukunda reported that last year, the district registered 6,383 diabetes patients. These figures only account for those who sought treatment at health facilities, emphasizing the urgent need for early screening to better manage the disease. He highlighted that diabetes is increasing at an alarming rate worldwide and can silently and progressively damage many body functions, including the heart, nerves, and kidneys.
The celebrations aim to raise global awareness about diabetes and emphasize the importance of its proper management, treatment, and prevention. Natukunda stressed that with the right knowledge and information, managing and treating diabetes becomes more feasible. He emphasized the role of lifestyle changes, regular medication, and consistent monitoring in managing the disease. The main causes of diabetes include physical inactivity, obesity, high-fat diets, and genetic factors.
Hon. Dr. Elisa Rutahirwa, Member of Parliament for Rukungiri Municipality, explained the significance of celebrating World Diabetes Day. He noted that it aims to raise global awareness about different types of diabetes, including type 1, type 2, gestational diabetes, and lesser-known forms. He urged the public to engage in regular health check-ups to understand their status, emphasizing that early detection can be crucial in preventing the disease from worsening.
To honor World Diabetes Day, Hon. Dr. Elisa Rutahirwa provided a one-day free diabetes screening for the public at Rujumbura Medicare Services to promote awareness and encourage proactive health management.
