THE World Health Organization estimates that over 422 million people worldwide have diabetes, a growing world epidemic that is expected to affect over 642 million by 2040.
Therefore it has become known as the “silent killer” disease or even referred to as the tsunami disease of the 21st century, killing more people worldwide than Aids and cancer combined.
With these statistics and concerns in mind, Lions Club International has taken action through their long term diabetes programmes which entail to support diabetes awareness, education, prevention, detection, control, and research.
A person will not generally know that he/she has diabetes until he/she does a blood test for some other reason. By that time it would have “silently” damaged organs like eyes, kidney, even causing heart attack or stroke without showing any visible warning outside. Hence the reference to diabetes as “silent killer”.
Prevention is better than cure. That is why the Uitenhage Lions Club has arranged for free diabetic screening in collaboration with a local health care specialist from Momentum OCSA.
The purpose of diabetes screening is to identify asymptomatic individuals who may have diabetes and not know it, and refer them to qualified healthcare professionals for additional assessment.
The free diabetic screenings will be held on Saturday, June 2nd at Despatch Superspar from 09:00 onwards.
Uitenhage Lions Club president, Hein de Vrey said, “This is an effective way for us as Lions to educate the community about prevention and control in addressing this silent killer disease.”
Lions work with local community partners and national diabetes associations to promote diabetes education and awareness throughout the year.
They also commemorate World Diabetes Day, an annual campaign led by the International Diabetes Federation on November 14.
– HEILIE COMBRINCK
