The average Bermudian may be consuming enough sugar to fill an industrial dumpster each year, said the Bermuda Diabetes Association, so

it is critical to educate people about lifestyle induced diabetes.

Tomorrow a number of organisations including King Edward VII Memorial Hospital and the Bermuda Diabetes Association will be offering health screenings and free advice to the community.

It is thought that a quarter of Bermuda’s population may have type two diabetes, a type of diabetes associated with highlevels of sugar in the diet and low levels of physical activity.

Diabetes educator Sara McKittrick said until work on a wellness survey in Bermuda begins later this year, no one knows how bad the problem is, for sure.

“It is significant that World Diabetes Day takes place on November 14,” she said. “It marks the birthday of Frederick Banting, who along with Charles Best, discovered insulin. They were Canadian scientists.

“World Diabetes Day was introduced by the International Diabetes Federation and World Health Organisation in 1991 in response to concern world wide over escalating incidences of type two diabetes, around the world.”

She said the aim of the day was to get the message out worldwide that, as a community, and as individuals, we have the responsibility to try and do everything we can to prevent the further escalation of this disease.

“We also want to make sure we are giving equal access to healthcare for those living with diabetes,” she said. “We want to make sure that those living with it have access to everything they need to live a healthy life.”

Tomorrow there will be free blood sugar and blood pressure screenings in the new extension of the Washington Mall from 12pm to 2pm.

“It may be for someone with a family history of diabetes who is wondering if they have it, or someone who has been diagnosed with it, but hasn’t seen their doctor in a while,” said Ms McKittrick. “Some people may not be able to afford the test strips.

“We cannot make a diagnosis, but through the screenings, we can tell if there might be a problem and advise a follow-up with a doctor.”

On Sunday, November 17, there will be a World Diabetes Day Church Service at St Marks Church at 10.30am to remember and honour past and present diabetes sufferers, their families, friends and caregivers.

Free health screenings and foot checks will be offered after the service.

In the evening there will be a moon walk for diabetes from City Hall in Hamilton from 6pm to 9pm.

There will be a $35 donation from each walker. Sign up at www.ptix.bm or call the Diabetes Resource Centre at 297-8427.

On November 19, Ms McKittrick will be giving a seminar in the Argus Building for those living with Diabetes or those who are newly diagnosed or need some re-education or reinforcing to manage their blood sugar.

To register call the Diabetes Resource Centre. Lunch is included.

If you miss tomorrow’s screenings, the Bermuda Hospitals Board will also be offering free health screenings on Friday in the lobby of King Edward VII Memorial Hospital between 10am and 2pm as part of this month’s Chronic Disease Management campaign.

They will be doing blood sugar, blood pressure and waist measurement screening will be available.

A lobby display and information table has been set up for the week and highlights prevention and treatment options for a range of chronic diseases.

Debbie Jones, BHB Diabetes Nurse Educator said: “Bermuda is facing the same health challenges as other jurisdictions.

“Globally, there are increasing rates of obesity, hypertension, diabetes and heart disease. Our campaign aims to educate the public about the prevention and treatment of these chronic diseases.

“Type two diabetes is a common and serious global health problem, which has developed as a result of cultural, social and dietary changes, ageing populations, reduced physical activity and other unhealthy lifestyle choices.

“There is conclusive evidence that type two diabetes and other chronic diseases can be prevented through nutrition counselling, increased physical activity and modest weight reduction.

“The importance of prevention, care and treatment options cannot be overemphasised. Lifestyle interventions and socially responsible policies can promote healthy living and help prevent many chronic diseases.

“We urge members of the public to take advantage of free health screenings offered at the hospital on Friday to assess their risk of hypertension, diabetes, stroke and heart disease.”

In addition to health screenings related to diabetes, they will also be offering free lung screenings for people over 40 years old.

Debbie Barboza, BHB Asthma and Chronic Lung Disease Nurse Educator said: “Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a common lung disease that blocks the airways, making breathing difficult.

“It is a major cause of disability as well as a leading cause of death. COPD greatly impacts quality of life for patients and their family members and kills three million people worldwide every year. Many people have lung disease and don’t know it.

“Some think their symptoms are just a natural part of the ageing process. However, COPD is a life-threatening disease that will get worse if not treated.

“While there is no cure, treatments and lifestyle changes can help you feel better, stay more active, and slow the progress of the disease. Symptoms include coughing, bringing up phlegm or mucus and getting short of breath.

“If you are over 40, with a history of smoking and have these symptoms, come to the hospital lobby for a free lung function test that can determine your risk.”

The Asthma and Chronic Lung Disease Centre and the Diabetes Education Centre are both located at the Mid-Atlantic Wellness Institute.

“To make an appointment for COPD education, call 239-1652 or e-mail asthma.centre@bhb.bm.

To enrol in Diabetes Education Centre classes, contact 239-2027 or e-mail diabetes.centre@bhb.bm.