The International Diabetes
Federation warns that if governments, health authorities and communities don’t
take urgent action, the total number of people with diabetes could reach 300
million within the next decade.
This means that many countries will
see up to 5 per cent of their gross domestic product and over 25 per cent of
their public healthcare budgets go towards dealing with the consequences of
diabetes.
In the US, treating the
complications of diabetes cost the government a staggering $5,000 per patient
per year. This does not include patients’ out of pocket expenses.
Diabetes is already the world’s
most costly epidemic, but unfortunately the statistics bear out that we will
see this health crisis grow at an accelerated pace. This will inevitably
increase the cost burden on society considerably.
In 2007, the total cost of diabetes
worldwide was set at US$190 billion. At current rates, by 2020, the US alone
will face a cost burden of US$221 billion per year.
Sadly, our local situation mirrors
these global trends and the time is now to ask ourselves earnestly if we can
afford to ignore this development. Apart from the personal cost and hardships
that comes with diabetes, we are obviously facing a potential economic
predicament too.
According to local statistics, the
Health Services Authority is currently treating 2,000 diabetic patients.
However, health officials estimate that an equal number is receiving care
through private practitioners.
With this is mind, it is then
fitting that we once again join the international community in commemorating
World Diabetes Day on Sunday, 14 November.
Prompted by an acute need to raise
awareness of this silent epidemic, this year’s international event is aptly
themed Let’s Take Control of Diabetes. Now.
I am pleased to note that the
Health Services Authority, Cayman Islands Diabetes Association and other
community groups are once again actively promoting diabetes education and
prevention–the two strongest defences against this looming health crisis.
I encourage everyone to
wholeheartedly join in the local activities, such as diabetes screening and the
HSA’s diabetes education course.
Early detection of diabetes and its
control improve the lives of sufferers by preventing further complications. I
therefore implore you to take advantage of the wealth of information presented
at the diabetes course. This education session will also sharpen the practical
skills needed to manage diabetes well.
Health professionals and diabetes
sufferers alike will certainly agree that there is hope in positive actions
such as taking personal responsibility and helping each other to make the right
lifestyle choices. So empower yourself to take control of your diabetes now!
Mark Scotland,
Minister of Health
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