The North-West University’s (NWU’s) Obesity and Metabolic Disease research group, led by Prof Sithandiwe Mazibuko-Mbeje from the subject group Biochemistry, together with the Lifestyle Diseases research focus are, led by Prof Ushotanefe Useh from the Faculty of Health Sciences, recently organised a diabetes awareness drive.

With the increasing prevalence of diabetes in South Africa, particularly among young adults, this initiative aimed to promote early prevention and raise awareness.

On the day, students and staff were educated on non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and obesity.

The drive featured health screenings for Body Mass Index (BMI), blood glucose, cholesterol and blood pressure. Out of the 500 participants screened, six were referred for further medical examination, highlighting the importance of early detection.

Prof Mazibuko-Mbeje emphasised the significance of the event in preventing serious complications such as heart attacks and hyperglycemia.

The event – funded by the School of Physical and Chemical Sciences, the Lifestyle Diseases research focus area, and the subject group Biochemistry – also promoted healthy lifestyles, offering students healthy snacks and encouraging regular exercise.

The Diabetes awareness drive team at the NWU are ready to promote early prevention and raise awareness.