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World Diabetes Day: 14 November

Diabetes is one of the fastest-growing health challenges in the world, yet many cases can be prevented or managed through healthy lifestyle choices.

This World Diabetes Day, it's time to take control, know your risk and take proactive steps to protect your long-term health.

The growing reality of diabetes
Diabetes affects more people than ever before. According to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), approximately 589 million adults worldwide, or 1 in every 9 adults, are living with diabetes. Even more concerning is that more than 252 million people remain undiagnosed, often unaware that damage may already be occurring to their heart, kidneys, eyes and blood vessels. Diabetes was also responsible for approximately 3.4 million deaths globally in 2024.

Why diabetes deserves our attention
Left unmanaged, diabetes can significantly impact nearly every area of the body and increase the risk of

• Heart disease
• Stroke
• Kidney disease
• Vision loss
• Nerve damage

The good news is that Type 2 diabetes, which accounts for more than 90% of diabetes cases, can often be delayed or prevented through healthy lifestyle habits. 

Small choices, powerful impact
Managing diabetes isn't about perfection. It's about making healthier choices consistently.

Prevention is powerful
Preventative care is one of the most effective tools in reducing your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes and managing the condition if you already have it.

1. Know your numbers
You cannot manage what you don't measure.

Make time for annual wellness screenings and keep track of:

• Blood glucose levels
• Blood pressure
• Cholesterol levels
• Waist circumference
• Body Mass Index (BMI)

If diabetes, heart disease or obesity runs in your family, speak to your healthcare provider about more frequent monitoring.

2. Move more every day
Physical activity helps your body use insulin more effectively and supports healthy blood glucose levels.
Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity every week, whether it's brisk walking, cycling, swimming, dancing or gardening. Even a 10-minute walk after a meal can help support healthy glucose management. 

3. Make smart food choices
Healthy eating doesn't require a complete lifestyle overhaul.

Start with small, sustainable changes:

• Fill half your plate with vegetables.
• Choose whole grains over refined carbohydrates.
• Reduce sugary drinks and snacks.
• Include lean proteins and healthy fats.
• Be mindful of portion sizes. 

Small changes repeated consistently can have a significant impact over time.

4. Don't wait for symptoms
One of the biggest challenges with Type 2 diabetes is that symptoms often develop gradually, or not at all.

That means you could be living with elevated blood glucose levels without knowing it.

A routine screening today could help identify risks early and prevent serious complications tomorrow.

Your call to action this World Diabetes Day

This November, challenge yourself to take one proactive step towards better health:

• Book your annual Tempo Lifestyle Screening. Don’t forget, your Best Bucks are waiting.
• Schedule a FREE preventative care consultation with your dietitian.
• Get your blood glucose tested if you haven't done so recently.
• Commit to 30 minutes of movement at least five days a week.
• Swap one sugary drink a day for water.
• Encourage a family member or friend to do a health screening too.

Remember, prevention is easier than treatment.

Personally Yours
At Bestmed, we believe every healthy choice is a step towards a better quality of life. This World Diabetes Day, take charge of your wellbeing, know your risk and make choices that support a healthier future. Because when it comes to your health, you should be calling the shots, not diabetes.

References
1. International Diabetes Federation (IDF). IDF Diabetes Atlas, 11th Edition, 2025. Global estimates indicate that 589 million adults are living with diabetes worldwide and that more than 252 million cases remain undiagnosed. Diabetes was responsible for approximately 3.4 million deaths in 2024. [diabetesatlas.org], [idf.org]

2.World Health Organization (WHO). Physical Activity Guidelines. Adults should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week to support overall health and reduce the risk of non-communicable diseases.