World Diabetes Day

World Diabetes Day is observed every year on 14 November to raise global awareness about diabetes – a long-term condition that occurs when the body cannot properly regulate blood sugar (glucose). The date marks the birthday of Sir Frederick Banting, who, together with Charles Best and colleagues, co-discovered insulin in 1922 and changed the outlook for people with diabetes worldwide.

History

World Diabetes Day was first introduced in 1991 by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and the World Health Organization (WHO) in response to the growing health threat posed by diabetes. At that time, diabetes was rapidly increasing but still did not receive enough attention from policymakers and the public. The day was created to put diabetes firmly on the global health agenda and to advocate for better prevention, diagnosis and care.

In 2006, the United Nations passed a resolution recognizing World Diabetes Day as an official UN day, further strengthening its importance. Since then, it has been observed every 14 November with annual themes focusing on topics such as access to insulin, nurses and diabetes care, family support, prevention of type 2 diabetes and the role of primary health care.

On World Diabetes Day, health organizations, hospitals and communities around the world organize screening camps, awareness walks, blue circle (the global symbol for diabetes) lighting events, educational seminars and media campaigns. These activities encourage people to get their blood sugar checked, understand risk factors, recognize symptoms early and seek ongoing care.

Why it matters

Diabetes affects hundreds of millions of people across the world and the numbers continue to rise. More than 500 million adults are estimated to be living with diabetes, and many more have prediabetes – higher than normal blood sugar that can develop into type 2 diabetes if no action is taken. Uncontrolled diabetes damages blood vessels and nerves over time, leading to serious complications such as heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, blindness, nerve damage and foot ulcers that may require amputation.

There are several types of diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition in which the body’s immune system destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. People with type 1 diabetes need daily insulin injections or an insulin pump to survive, and it usually appears in childhood or adolescence, although it can start at any age. Type 2 diabetes, which accounts for about 90% of all diabetes cases, develops when the body becomes resistant to insulin or cannot use it effectively. It is strongly linked to overweight or obesity, lack of physical activity, unhealthy diet and family history, and it often develops in adulthood but is increasingly seen in younger people.

World Diabetes Day emphasizes that much of the burden of type 2 diabetes can be prevented or delayed through lifestyle changes: maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet rich in vegetables and whole grains and low in added sugars and trans fats, staying physically active, avoiding tobacco and limiting sugary drinks. For people already diagnosed with diabetes, regular blood sugar monitoring, appropriate medicines including insulin or oral drugs, healthy eating, exercise and regular check-ups for eyes, kidneys, feet and heart are essential to live well and reduce complications.

Another key message of the day is access – insulin and basic diabetes medicines, testing strips, glucometers and education should be affordable and available to all, not just to people in wealthy countries or big cities. Without these, many people cannot keep their blood sugar under control and face preventable suffering and death.

Key facts

In Bangladesh

In Bangladesh, diabetes has become a major public health concern and is one of the fastest rising non-communicable diseases in South Asia. Rapid urbanization, sedentary lifestyles, increased consumption of sugary drinks and processed foods, and reduced physical activity have all contributed to more people developing type 2 diabetes, often at a relatively young age.

Estimates suggest that roughly 1 in 8 adults in Bangladesh lives with diabetes, and many more have prediabetes or remain undiagnosed. People may ignore early symptoms such as increased thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, tiredness, blurred vision or repeated infections, and only seek help when complications like heart disease, stroke, kidney problems or foot ulcers develop.

On World Diabetes Day, endocrinologists, diabetologists, cardiologists and public health experts in Bangladesh organize free screening camps, awareness rallies, media talk shows and educational sessions in hospitals and community centers. They emphasize the importance of checking blood sugar regularly, especially for people with risk factors like family history, overweight, high blood pressure, gestational diabetes in pregnancy or age above 40.

Organizations also highlight the need for affordable access to insulin and diabetes medicines, healthy food choices, safe spaces for physical activity and strong primary health care services that can provide ongoing follow-up. Families are encouraged to support members with diabetes by cooking healthier meals, walking together, reminding them to take medicines and attending doctor visits.

By combining prevention, early detection, proper treatment and long-term support, World Diabetes Day serves as a reminder that diabetes does not have to lead to disability or early death. With the right care and lifestyle, people in Bangladesh and around the world can live active and healthy lives even with diabetes.