Thu Nov 14 03:56:02 UTC 2024: ## World Diabetes Day: Breaking Barriers, Bridging Gaps in Diabetes Care

**New Delhi, India** – Observed annually on November 14th, World Diabetes Day serves as a critical platform for raising global awareness about diabetes, a chronic condition affecting millions worldwide. This year’s theme, “Breaking Barriers, Bridging Gaps,” highlights the urgent need to ensure equitable access to high-quality, affordable diabetes care for all.

According to the Indian Council of Medical Research – India Diabetes (ICMR INDIAB) study, the prevalence of diabetes in India alone is a staggering 10.1 crore. Diabetes arises from either insufficient insulin production or the body’s inability to effectively use insulin, leading to uncontrolled blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia). This can damage various body systems, including nerves and blood vessels, potentially leading to serious complications like heart attacks, strokes, kidney failure, and vision loss.

The “Breaking Barriers, Bridging Gaps” theme emphasizes the need for inclusivity in healthcare, encouraging collaboration between governments, health organizations, and communities to address disparities in diabetes care. It calls for a unified approach to not only reduce diabetes risk factors but also provide sustained support to those living with the condition.

The Government of India has launched several proactive measures to combat diabetes as part of the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NP-NCD) under the National Health Mission (NHM). These initiatives focus on enhancing healthcare access, raising awareness, and promoting healthy lifestyles to reduce the prevalence of diabetes and its long-term complications.

World Diabetes Day serves as a powerful reminder of the growing global impact of diabetes and the critical need for collective action. By fostering awareness, providing resources, and encouraging healthy living, we can work towards a healthier future for all.

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