14th November, 2019 Tonga Diabetes Association together with various partners marked World Diabetes Day 2019 under the theme of ‘Diabetes Protect your Family’ at Tanoa Dateline Hotel this morning.
Speaking to more than 50 guests, the President of the Tonga Diabetes Association Dr Taniela Palu said, “Today we are here to highlight the impact diabetes has on families and the role of family members in supporting prevention of diabetes.”
“There are more than 415 million people live with diabetes worldwide, as in Tonga with the number of over 6000 thousand people living with diabetes. The prevalence is predicted to continue rising if current trends prevail. Diabetes is a major cause of premature dying, blindness, kidney failure, heart attack, stroke and lower limb amputation. It is then said, that by 2040 the number of people living with diabetes will increase.”
He emphasized the complications of diabetes can be avoided or delayed with medication if sustain healthy lifestyle and healthy eating.
“Whether you have a family history of diabetes, have pre-diabetes or are for diabetes, there are actions you can take to reduce that risk like participating sports and other physical activities. Additionally, the choosing of healthy food for the energy required to stay active and maintain healthy weight as we are not familiar with childhood obesity.”
Dr Palu said the economic burden on the health-care system and national economy, diabetes can impose a large economic burden on people with diabetes and their families in terms of higher out-of-pocket health care payments and loss of family income associated with disability, premature death, and caring for disabled family members.
“Expenditure on medications and treatments are a major source of household expenditure on diabetes healthcare. That is why it is important for all of us with the message today, to support each other in fighting against this disease.”
He also acknowledged the ongoing support and assistance from the developing partners to prevent diabetes.
Attending the program were the Acting Minister for Health and Minister for Education and Training, Hon. Siaosi Sovaleni, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to Tonga, His Excellency Mr. Tetsuya Ishii, Reverend Falematapule Lomu, governmental officials and guests.
ENDS
Issued by the: Ministry of Meteorology, Energy, Information, Disaster Management, Environment, Climate Change & Communications.