Contribute to Awareness This World Diabetes Day

Many health specialists regard diabetes as one of the most pressing health challenges of our time. 

In fact, as per the World Health Organization, there are at least 830 million people around the world with diabetes. 

And there are many who may have diabetes, but don’t even know it yet.  

This is the reason why November is such an important month for diabetes. 

World Diabetes Day is recognized every year on November 14. 

In this blog, we explore what diabetes really is, why it can be difficult to manage, and what steps you can take to protect your health or support someone you care about.

At IMANA, our goal is simple: to help you understand diabetes in a way that feels clear, practical, and empowering.

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a long-term condition that affects how your body turns food into energy. 

Normally, your body uses a hormone called insulin to help move sugar from your blood into your cells. 

With diabetes, this process does not work as it should, and sugar builds up in the bloodstream.

There are two main types of diabetes, plus gestational diabetes:

Type 1 diabetes

In this type, your body does not produce insulin at all.

Type 1 is often diagnosed in childhood or early adulthood and requires daily insulin to manage it effectively. 

Type 2 diabetes

With this type of diabetes, your body still makes insulin. However, your body is not able to use it efficiently.  

This is the most common form of diabetes and often develops gradually over time.

Gestational diabetes

Gestational diabetes can occur during pregnancy. However, it usually goes away after delivery, though it increases future risk.

The Importance of Managing Your Diabetes 

When diabetes is not managed well, high blood sugar can slowly affect different parts of the body. 

Below are some health areas diabetes can impact if it goes untreated or unmanaged.

• Uncontrolled diabetes raises the risk of heart disease and stroke. 
• Your kidneys work hard to filter waste from your blood. High sugar levels over many years can strain them and may lead to kidney damage. 
• Diabetes can affect the small blood vessels in the eyes, which may lead to blurry vision or other eye problems. 
• High blood sugar can damage nerves, especially in the feet. This can cause numbness, pain, or wounds that heal slowly. 
• Diabetes can also impact mood, stress levels, and confidence.

When Should You Visit a Doctor?

Diabetes can develop quietly, and many people do not notice symptoms at first. 

You should consider visiting a doctor if you experience:

• Feeling very thirsty or hungry more often than usual
• Needing to urinate frequently, especially at night
• Feeling tired even after resting
• Blurred vision
• Unexplained weight loss
• Tingling or numbness in hands or feet
• Slow-healing cuts or frequent infections

Even if symptoms seem mild, it is better to check than to wait. A simple blood test can give clarity and peace of mind. 

If you have a family history of diabetes, are overweight, or are over 40, regular screenings are a good idea, even if you feel well.

Why is Diabetes Hard to Manage?

Diabetes affects how you eat, how you move, how you feel, and even how you think about your future. 

That is a lot for anyone to juggle, especially alongside work, family, and all of life’s responsibilities.

Here are some reasons diabetes can be challenging:

Daily commitment

From checking blood sugar to planning meals and remembering medications, diabetes requires ongoing effort. 

Lifestyle habits take time to change

Food is not just sustenance for many of us. It also represents tradition, celebration, comfort, family gatherings, and convenience after a long day. 

Building healthy food habits can take time for anyone. 

Stress and mental health

Stress can raise blood sugar, too. When someone feels anxious or tired, sticking to a care routine becomes harder. Diabetes can also bring fear or frustration at times. 

Access to Care

Not everyone can easily see a doctor, afford medication, or meet with a diabetes educator. Some communities have fewer resources or face cultural or language barriers. 

Steps You Can Take to Manage Diabetes

Here are some practical steps you can take to manage your diabetes:

• Know your numbers: Keep track of your blood sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol, and weight. Regular check-ins help you and your doctor understand how your body is doing.
• Choose balanced foods: Focus on vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean protein, beans, and healthy fats. Limiting sugary drinks and processed snacks can make a big difference over time.
• Move a little every day: Aim for about 150 minutes of movement each week. Walking, swimming, cycling, gardening, or dancing at home all count.
• Care for your stress: Practice prayer, deep breathing, mindfulness, journaling, or talk to someone you trust to support your emotional well-being.
• Take medications as prescribed: If your doctor recommends insulin or other medicines, stay consistent. 
• Stay hydrated and sleep well.

Join the Diabetes Awareness Movement This November

World Diabetes Day is about learning, sharing, and supporting one another. 

At IMANA, we are committed to building healthier, informed, and supported communities. 

Through education, outreach, and health resources, we work to encourage early screening, promote healthy habits, and empower families with knowledge and compassion.

If you would like to be part of this effort, we would love to have you with us. You can volunteer, share our resources, or donate to help expand our programs. 

Every action, however small, strengthens our mission and brings us closer to a healthier future for everyone.