Photo courtesy Images by Katherine

World Diabetes Day

We are about to celebrate another World Diabetes Day. Yes, I said world. Sunday, November 14th is the 2010 World Diabetes Day. Despite the fact that the United States gets a bad rap for overweight and obesity rates, diabetes is affecting the world. The latest data from the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) shows that diabetes now affects 285 million people worldwide and costs the world economy at least $US376 billion in 2010. Another staggering statistic that most Americans are unaware of is that diabetes kills more Americans every year than breast cancer and AIDS combined.

The IDF began World Diabetes Day in 1991 in response to escalating rates of diabetes and the United Nations signed a resolution in 2006 officially recognizing the day. This year begins a five-year campaign to address the growing need for diabetes education and prevention programs.

Interestingly enough, The Diabetes Educator (a journal published for the American Association of Diabetes Educators) just published the results of a large study that looked at the cost savings and quality of care among patients with diabetes who received diabetes education. The study concluded that not only did those patients who receive diabetes education have lower average costs than those who do not participate in diabetes education but they were also more likely to follow best practice treatment recommendations. Unfortunately, only about 50% of Americans with diabetes participate in formal diabetes education.

If you or a loved one is afflicted with diabetes, why not celebrate this world day by seeking out a diabetes education program. Start by asking your physician for a referral since it is required for most insurance coverage and, he or she will likely be able to recommend a local program. You can also find a diabetes educator online at www.diabeteseducator.org. If there is not a program in your area, consider supporting the world day theme by inquiring at your local hospital. Most hospitals want to provide the services that their community needs and the statistics easily demonstrate the need.