The Christmas season is upon us and many people are busy preparing to entertain or be entertained. Corporations, companies, organisations and families are all hosting their end-of-year functions where all types of foods and drinks are served.
The Diabetes Association of Trinidad and Tobago (DATT) is very concerned that this country has the highest incidence of diabetes in the Western hemisphere where one in five adults are diabetics and of every three people with diabetes, at least one person does not know they have it.
It is the third highest cause of death and every day from Monday to Friday there are amputations of limbs throughout the nation’s health institutions.
The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that by the year 2030, over 500 million people would be diagnosed with this condition.
Even though these statistics are frightening, diabetes is a condition which can be effectively managed and an individual can live a long healthy life, preventing or delaying diabetes-related complications.
DATT is asking that people manage their portion sizes when eating and be moderate in drinking alcohol. It is important as your health is your wealth.
Asha Samaroo
Diabetes Association of Trinidad and Tobago