The Antigua and Barbuda Diabetes Association (ABDA) is honoured to join the global community in observing World Diabetes Day (WDD) and Diabetes Awareness Month 2026 under the theme “Early Action on Diabetes,” highlighting the importance of early diagnosis, reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes, and ensuring timely access to quality diabetes care.
Observed annually on November 14, World Diabetes Day is the world’s largest diabetes awareness campaign. It aims to raise global awareness about diabetes as a critical public health issue and to promote coordinated action to prevent, manage, and care for the condition.
EARLY ACTION: WHY IT MATTERS
The need for early action on diabetes has never been greater. According to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), approximately 589 million adults worldwide are living with diabetes, representing one in nine adults. The IDF estimates that in Antigua and Barbuda, approximately one in eight adults are living with diabetes. Globally, more than 40% of those living with diabetes are unaware that they have the condition.
Early action can make a significant difference in safeguarding lives and livelihoods. Identifying diabetes and prediabetes early, understanding individual risk factors, adopting healthier lifestyle practices and accessing appropriate medical care can help prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes and reduce the risk of serious diabetes-related complications.
“We often hear unfortunate, and sometimes frightening, stories about the health challenges faced by people living with diabetes,” said Charity Dublin, President of ABDA. “Hearing about complications such as blindness, chronic kidney disease, heart failure and amputations can sometimes create the impression that these outcomes are inevitable. However, that does not have to be the story. Early diagnosis, timely access to care and sustained healthy lifestyle changes can make a significant difference. Taking proactive steps can improve overall health and quality of life. This is why early action matters.”
PROGRAMME OF ACTIVITIES
Throughout November, ABDA, together with its partners, collaborators and stakeholders, will host a series of activities designed to increase public awareness, promote healthier lifestyles, encourage early detection and strengthen support for people living with diabetes.The programme of activities includes:
November 8: Church Service – 9:00 AM, Powershift Ministries House of Prayer
November 13: Go Blue Day
November 13: Diabetes School Quiz – 8:30 AM, SDA Primary School
November 14: World Diabetes Day Awareness Walk – 5:30 PM, Rising Sun Grounds
November 18: Public Lecture – “Changing the Story of Diabetes”, 5:30 PM, Zoom
November 22: Family Fun Day – 1:00 PM, TN Kirnon Primary School
November 25: Health Fair – 11:00 AM, MOS Medical Services, Old Parham Road
November 28: ABDA 40th Anniversary Gala – 7:00 PM, Presidential Suite, Sir Vivian Richards Stadium
As the Association celebrates its 40th anniversary, this year’s observance carries added significance. It marks four decades of advocacy, education and community engagement that reflect ABDA’s continued commitment to improving health and wellbeing in Antigua and Barbuda.
This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: One in eight adults in Antigua and Barbuda living with diabetes, association says.