SAINT Lucia on Thursday joined the rest of the world in celebrating World Diabetes Day, a date recognised globally. This year’s theme, “Diabetes and Well-being”, underscored the importance of ensuring that individuals with diabetes can live a healthy and fulfilling life with equal opportunities for happiness and well-being.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 422 million people worldwide are living with diabetes. The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) estimates that 11.8% of Saint Lucians live with diabetes. Based on the 2020 Saint Lucia’s STEPS Survey, data indicates that around 15.9% of adults in Saint Lucia have increased blood sugar levels.
Globally, Type 2 Diabetes is the most common form of the disease, accounting for an estimated 90% of all cases. Fortunately, Type 2 Diabetes can often be prevented or even managed through healthy lifestyle choices. The Ministry of Health, in the person of Dr. Shana Cyr-Philbert, Senior Medical Officer, Thursday reminded Saint Lucians that living with diabetes is not a barrier to living a full life.
She stated that with proper education, healthy lifestyle practices, regular monitoring, and appropriate medication, diabetes can be managed effectively. Knowledge is power, especially for those living with diabetes. Understanding which foods help manage blood sugar levels, what constitutes acceptable blood sugar readings, and how to monitor one’s condition can empower individuals to take control of their health and well-being.
Physical, mental, and emotional well-being are all integral to managing diabetes. Simple yet impactful commitments, such as staying physically active, maintaining a balanced diet, avoiding smoking and alcohol, taking care of mental health, and achieving a healthy weight, can make a significant difference.
Dr Philbert noted that the Government of Saint Lucia remains committed to improving access to healthcare services, education, and diabetes treatment. Diabetes screening is free of charge at all wellness centres nationwide. In addition, through the Performance-Based Financing (PBF) Pilot Programme at 17 participating Wellness Centres, diabetic clients can get laboratory tests done at NO COST.
“We continue to work towards promoting holistic care by ensuring that individuals living with diabetes have access to medical consultations, specialist services, diabetic retinopathy eye screenings, nutritional counselling, foot care, and mental health support,” Dr Philbert said, adding, “since individuals with diabetes spend a significant amount of time managing their condition at home, we encourage them to improve their knowledge and skills by enrolling in self-management courses offered at wellness centres.”
This year, the Ministry of Health, Wellness & Elderly Affairs will collaborate with a range of stakeholders to raise awareness about the prevalence and impact of diabetes in Saint Lucia. Multiple activities will highlight the importance of well-being for people living with diabetes.
Dr Philbert, on Thursday, called on both the medical and non-medical fraternity to reaffirm their commitment to promoting the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of all Saint Lucians, particularly those living with diabetes.