Nepal to celebrate anti-diabetes day today

Kathmandu, November 13:

Dharahara will be lit up in blue colour which is the symbol of the diabetes circle, to mark the first United Nations World Day against Diabetes tomorrow. The event of lighting up is held in over 100 of the world’s most inconic buildings and sites.

According to a press release issued by the Nepal Diabetes Association (NDA), the Sydney Opera House, one of the world’s most famous landmarks, is one of the first buildings to join the campaign and agree to light up in blue, and various landmarks, including Tokyo Tower and Taipei 101 Tower.

“Diabetes has become a significant public health problem in urban Nepal. Studies carried out by the NDA in towns and cities throughout the country have revealed a diabetes prevalance of around 15 per cent among people aged between 20 years and above and 19 per cent among

people aged 40 years and above. The prevalence of diabetes in rural areas is less than 2 per cent among people aged between 20 years and above,” the press release stated.

Two hundred and forty six million people live with diabetes globally and if nothing done, the figure will reach 380 million within 20 years, the DNA said.

The Association also urged the government to implement national policies for the prevention, care and treatment of diabetes in line with the sustainable healthcare systems.

This is the first time that a non-communicable disease has been recognised as a serious global health threat, the statement added.