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City Participates in Global Observance of World Diabetes Day
In observance of World Diabetes Day on November 14, 2023, the City of Johannesburg’s Health Department is organising an 8km fun walk from Naledi Hall, Soweto, on Sunday, November 19, 2023. The walk aims to raise awareness about diabetes, promote a healthy lifestyle, and provide free screening for diabetes, HIV/Aids, and high blood pressure. With over 4 million South Africans affected by diabetes, the disease is considered a silent killer, often showing no symptoms in the early stages. Diabetes has emerged as one of the leading causes of death over the past decade in South Africa, ranking second only to tuberculosis as reported by Joburg Newsroom.
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Untreated diabetes can lead to severe complications such as heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and lower limb amputation. A study by the National Library of Medicine predicts that by 2030, type 2 diabetes will cost the South African government R35.1 billion, with 51% of the estimated cost attributed to managing the condition and 49% to complications. The City of Johannesburg is committed to offering adequate diabetes treatment in its clinics.
Kamogelo Maimane, Manager of Public Health at the City of Johannesburg, emphasises the city’s efforts in diabetes prevention through awareness campaigns, patient screenings, and education on managing the condition. Patients diagnosed with diabetes receive guidance on lifestyle changes, including adopting an active and healthy lifestyle, weight reduction, and smoking cessation. The City of Johannesburg Health Department collaborates with Novo Nordisk through City Changing Diabetes (CCD), aiming to understand the factors driving the rise of diabetes in urban areas and providing practical solutions based on this knowledge.
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Photo: Facebook / @World Diabetes Day
