Diabetes SA's Global Walk and Wellness Expo aims to raise awareness

Participants and spectators are also invited to attend the Wellness Expo which will offer advice on how to maintain a healthy lifestyle, and offer free glucose and blood pressure testing.

“Diabetes is the second highest cause of death in the eThekwini Municipality, yet this serious condition still remains in the shadow of HIV/AIDS and cancer,” says Jenny Russell, branch manager for Diabetes SA Durban, a non-profit organisation that provides support and wellness education for both diabetics and communities.

There are currently 415 million people worldwide with diabetes, as opposed to 14 million with cancer and 35 million who are HIV positive. Every 8 seconds, two people develop diabetes and the International Diabetes Federation estimates that there will be 592 million people with diabetes by 2035.

Russell points out that up to 80% of Type 2 diabetes is preventable by adopting a healthy diet and increasing physical activity. “Worldwide, 200 children are becoming diabetic every day. However, the fastest growing group of Type 2’s is the 35-50 age group – the breadwinners of the family,” Russel says. At least 50% of all people with diabetes are unaware of their condition, and participants and spectators are urged to be tested on the day of the Diabetes Walk.

The 5km walk is open to anyone and costs R60 per person and children under 6 years old are free to enter. Participants are  encouraged to bring their dog along (on a leash). All proceeds go towards supporting Diabetes SA and its work in all communities.

The Wellness Expo is free to the public to browse with over 20 exhibitors, many of which will be offering information and sample products relating to diabetes, including free diabetes testing.

“This event can only grow from strength to strength with the support from our sponsors such as SASA, ABI, Guard Smart, Aquelle, Fit Healthcare, Tony Miller Promotions, Netcare 911, Pure Studio and the KZN Health Department,” Russell says, thankfully.

For more information, visit diabetessa.org.za. Alternatively, connect with them on Facebook.