By Surjit Singh Flora
(Samajweekly) November is Diabetes Awareness Month across the globe, and World Diabetes Day, celebrated annually on November 14, is more than a reminder of the ongoing fight against diabetes. It is a call to action, a moment to recognize the impact of this disease on millions worldwide, and a chance to rally for better resources, education, and health equity.This year’s theme, “Diabetes and well-being,” highlights the importance of communities working together to manage diabetes. Early testing and awareness are also essential for people who are experiencing diabetes symptoms or are at risk of developing the condition, said Mark Bernhardt, director of corporate communications at Dynacare, while sitting with Asia Metro at the Mississauga Library Diabetes Testing Campaign. It is a timely and essential focus for countries around the globe, especially in provinces like Ontario where diabetes prevalence is rapidly increasing and where disparities in access to diabetes care are especially pronounced.
Diabetes affects over 1.5 million people in Ontario and 500 million globally, according to recent statistics from the International Diabetes Federation (IDF). It is one of the fastest-growing chronic diseases worldwide.
By 2045, the number of people with diabetes is projected to increase to a staggering 783 million. Diabetes not only affects health, but also significantly strains economies, healthcare systems, and families. Globally, healthcare expenditures attributed to diabetes are estimated to exceed $900 billion annually, straining resources in both developed and developing countries alike.
Type 2 diabetes is the most common form, accounting for around 90 percent of all cases. It is often linked to lifestyle factors such as diet, physical inactivity, and obesity. Type 1 diabetes, while less common, poses significant challenges as it requires lifelong insulin treatment and careful monitoring. Both types demand diligent management, yet millions worldwide remain undiagnosed or unable to access necessary care, medications, and support.
The disparities in diabetes care are particularly stark in low- and middle-income countries, where rising diabetes rates coincide with limited access to healthcare resources.
In Canada, diabetes has quietly evolved into a major public health challenge. According to Diabetes Canada, over 5.7 million Canadians currently have diabetes (both type 1 and type 2, including undiagnosed type 2). The healthcare system spends $30 billion annually on diabetes treatment. The widespread occurrence of diabetes and its significant effects on our communities and healthcare system highlight the need for more diabetes research.
This figure may underestimate the true prevalence due to limited access to diagnostic services and the widespread underreporting of cases. Canada’s rapidly urbanizing population, shifting dietary patterns, and increasingly sedentary lifestyles contribute to the rising prevalence of diabetes. Traditional diets rich in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables are being replaced by processed foods and sugary drinks. These changes are fueling an epidemic of obesity, a key risk factor for type 2 diabetes. Canada’s healthcare system, already stretched thin, faces immense challenges in diagnosing and treating diabetes. Also, diabetic Canada has expanded government coverage for diabetic drugs and supplies beyond childhood.
In a conversation with Mark Bernhardt, the Director of Corporate Communications at Dynacare, the company expressed that Canada faces a significant challenge in reducing the prevalence of diabetes and promoting prevention and early intervention without widespread awareness.
To raise awareness Mark mentioned that Dynacare occasionally holds awareness campaigns at Hindu mandirs and various religious places, and he believes there is a great opportunity to accomplish even more. Dynacare occasionally dedicates itself to supporting Canadians by offering free testing campaigns for their well-being, he added.
According to Dynacare nearly 56,000 A1C tests were performed by Dynacare this year as part of their #Dynacare4Diabetes Campaign, with almost 60% of those tests requiring medical follow-up. Being over the age of 40, having ancestry from a high-risk ethnic group, or having hypertension are all risk factors that should prompt testing. Up until December 6, 2024, residents of the GTA can still take advantage of the free test offered by Dynacare labs. To locate the nearest lab, visit dynacare.ca for additional details.
