Education and awareness are the keys to eradicating diabetes, according to Community and Cultural Affairs Minister Wayne Scott.

Proclaiming November as Diabetes Awareness Month yesterday, the Minister said:

“The prevalence of diabetes in our community has grave consequences and affects so many lives and families. From the very young to our seniors, Bermuda has not been spared from the escalation of this illness.

“We can, however, help the Bermuda Diabetes Association in raising awareness of diabetes as public health problem in our country. This month we have opportunity to get involved in life-saving efforts to prevent diabetes.”

On top of education and awareness, the Minister said that “adopting a healthier lifestyle” can also prevent further spread of the disease.

“There is good evidence that a large proportion of cases of diabetes and its complications can be prevented by a healthy diet, regular physical activity, maintaining a normal body weight and avoiding tobacco,” he said.

The Minister encouraged “all residents to become advocates for improving the overall health of our community”.

“Use this month to learn more about diabetes, become knowledgeable about the symptoms of the disease and then get on board with making some healthier lifestyle changes.

“We can, like the World Health Organisation mission, minimise the complications of this disease and maximise the quality of our lives.”