With 318 million people globally being at risk of developing type 2 diabetes, the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Africa Unit for Transdisciplinary Health Research (AUTHeR) saw the need to create awareness on World Diabetes Day*.

AUTHeR together with Dischem Pharmacy, the Department of Health, the Heart Foundation and the NWU’s Centre of Excellence for Nutrition launched an awareness campaign at Mooi River Mall in Potchefstroom on 14 November.

The campaign was a success with a large number of people participating in the event. Members of the public had the opportunity to get their blood glucose and blood pressure levels checked for free. They were also given advice on how to take preventative measures if they do not have diabetes, and how to exercise self-care if they have already been diagnosed with it.

Information on the correct food portions, how to make better decisions regarding health, exercise tips and screening for other ailments by the Department of Health was also conducted on the day.

*World Diabetes Day is annually commemorated on 14 November. The international theme for this year was, Women and diabetes – Our right to a healthy future.

Members from the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Africa Unit for Transdisciplinary Health Research (AUTHeR), other stakeholders and community members during the World Diabetes Day awareness campaign.