World Diabetes Day 2023: Ensuring Access to Diabetes Care for All

On November 14th, we observe World Diabetes Day 2023, a date set aside to recognize the global impact of diabetes and emphasize the necessity of enhanced access to care. From 2021 to 2023, the theme “Access to Diabetes Care” highlights a critical gap: the millions of individuals living with diabetes who lack sufficient care and resources. 

With diabetes management requiring continuous support, it is essential that everyone affected has access to medication, technology and education to effectively manage their condition and prevent serious complications.

World Diabetes Day 2023 is a call to action for both the availability of diabetes care and support to all who need them, without delay as well as the increased government funding in diabetes care and preventative measures. Read on to learn more about World Diabetes Day 2023.

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History of World Diabetes Day

Annually observed on November 14th, World Diabetes Day commemorates the birth of Sir Frederick Banting, who, along with Charles Best, made the groundbreaking discovery of insulin in 1922. The initiative shines a light on the critical issues facing those with diabetes and ensures the condition remains a topic of discussion in public and political realms.

The early roots of World Diabetes Day can be traced back to 1991 when the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and the World Health Organization (WHO) launched the day in response to the rising tide of diabetes worldwide. Recognized officially by the United Nations (UN) in 2006, World Diabetes Day 2023 serves as the pinnacle of a year-long campaign promoting awareness to over a billion people across 160 countries.

The IDF represents the collective voice of over 240 national diabetes organizations from around the world. Since its inception in 1950, the IDF has championed the cause of diabetes care, prevention and the quest for a cure on a global scale. With a focus on local and international advocacy, the IDF works to shape policies, raise public awareness and promote health enhancements.

Symbolized by a blue circle logo since 2007, this emblem represents diabetes awareness and the solidarity of the international diabetes community against this widespread health challenge.

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Ways to Get Involved

You can contribute to this advocacy and highlight the importance of diabetes education through various actions:

• Distribute the IDF’s tool for assessing type 2 diabetes risk to help people determine their likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes.
• Use the IDF’s digital platform to send a letter to your national health minister or the Permanent Mission to the UN in Geneva, urging them to allocate more resources to meet the WHO’s diabetes coverage objectives by 2030.
• Help spread the message by downloading and displaying informational posters, infographics and banners within your community.
• Organize a local event such as a walk for diabetes awareness, illuminate a landmark in blue or host a diabetes fair. Share your events and photos online.
• Take part in the blue circle selfie movement: snap a picture with the diabetes blue circle symbol and share your experience with diabetes on social media.
• Promote awareness by using the World Diabetes Day Instagram filters that feature the blue circle and the central message to “know your risk.”

World Diabetes Day 2023 Theme

The theme of World Diabetes Day from 2021 through 2023 has been centered on “Access to Diabetes Care.” A critical issue in diabetes management is the lack of awareness among individuals about their possible diabetic condition. This often leads to late presentation in medical emergencies, burdening the healthcare infrastructure. Unrecognized diabetes can also complicate the treatment of other medical issues.

The IDF emphasizes the necessity for healthcare providers to identify and diagnose diabetes early. This enables professionals to dedicate sufficient time to offering quality advice and management strategies post-diagnosis. The organization also highlights that self-care is paramount, as over 95 percent of diabetic individuals manage their condition independently. It is vital for these individuals to have continuous access to educational materials and resources to manage their diabetes effectively, maintain their well-being and prevent further health complications.

Part of the World Diabetes Day 2023 campaign includes the “Blue Monument Challenge,” lighting up iconic structures in blue to symbolize hope and awareness. This illuminating gesture turns the spotlight on the pressing facts: over 463 million adults were living with diabetes as of 2019, half of whom remained undiagnosed, and diabetes was the cause of 4.2 million deaths that year.