Each year on November 14, the World Health Organization Regional Office for Africa joins the international community in commemorating World Diabetes Day. This is a day to re-commit ourselves to strengthening the prevention and control of diabetes in our region. This year the day is commemorated under the theme “Women and diabetes - our right to a healthy future”.
Globally, 205 million women – live with diabetes. In the African region, in 2014, it was estimated that 22.9% of men and 38.6% of women above the age of 18 were obese. Overweight and obesity are risk factors for cardiovascular disease, diabetes and some cancers in later life. During pregnancy some women may experience a temporary rise in blood glucose above normal but still below those diagnostic of diabetes. This condition is commonly referred to as gestational diabetes. Overweight or obesity or excess weight-gain during pregnancy increases the risk of gestational diabetes or diabetes in pregnancy. Diabetes in pregnancy and gestational diabetes increase the risk of future obesity and type 2 diabetes, as well as complications during pregnancy, labour and delivery including stillbirth.
Healthy diet, physical activity and avoiding tobacco use can prevent or delay type 2 diabetes.
The World Diabetes Day 2017 campaign promotes affordable and equitable access for all women with diabetes or at risk of diabetes to the essential medicines and technologies, self-management education and information they require to achieve optimal diabetes outcomes and strengthen their capacity to prevent type 2 diabetes.
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