Early diagnosis is the focus of this year's World Diabetes Day on 14 November, with the Cyprus Endocrinology Society highlighting the importance of identifying the condition before serious complications develop.
Diabetes cases continue to rise
According to the Society, citing the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), diabetes affects approximately 590 million people worldwide, with numbers continuing to increase.
The organisation noted that one in two people with Type 2 diabetes is diagnosed only after experiencing a first complication, underlining the importance of early detection.
WHO targets for 2030
The theme of this year's campaign is "Early Action on Diabetes".
The Society said the World Health Organization (WHO) aims by 2030 to achieve early diagnosis in 80% of patients and ensure adequate blood pressure control in 80% of those diagnosed.
Prevention and awareness
The Society stressed that these goals require greater public awareness, particularly among high-risk groups, regular screening programmes and timely access to treatments proven to reduce complications.
It also highlighted the importance of promoting healthy lifestyles from an early age through education and prevention initiatives.
Importance of Type 1 diabetes diagnosis
In Type 1 diabetes, symptoms can appear rapidly, making prompt diagnosis critical in order to prevent diabetic ketoacidosis, a serious acute complication.
The Society said government authorities, healthcare professionals and relevant stakeholders all have a role in improving public awareness and access to preventive and therapeutic care.
"Time is valuable in diabetes, and delays in diagnosis and proper management can lead to irreversible consequences," the statement said.
Source: CNA
