World Diabetes Day 2025: Know the Risks, Take Early Action
Every 14th of November, the world comes together to observe World Diabetes Day, a global campaign dedicated to raising awareness about one of the most pressing public health challenges. This year, the World Health Organization (WHO) highlights the theme, “Diabetes across life stages,” underscoring the importance of providing integrated care, including effective management that supports people with diabetes throughout their entire lives.
In the Philippines, food is at the heart of every celebration, from christenings to birthdays and weddings to town fiestas. While these lively cultural practices bring joy and connection, they also contribute to the rising prevalence of diabetes across the country.
The Department of Health (DOH) reports that over 656,000 Filipinos have been diagnosed with diabetes in 2024, a significant rise from previous years. Experts warn that the actual number is likely much higher, as numerous cases remain undetected.
What is Diabetes?
The WHO defines diabetes as a long-term condition that happens when the body cannot produce enough insulin or cannot use it effectively. Insulin is the hormone responsible for helping the body convert food into energy. When this process is disrupted, sugar accumulates in the blood, which can lead to serious health issues over time.
Common signs to watch out for are:
- Urinating more frequently than usual
- Feeling extremely thirsty
- Losing weight without explanation
- Experiencing blurred vision
- Feeling unusually tired or weak
- Wounds or infections that take longer to heal
- Tingling or numbness in the hands and feet
Who is at Risk?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reminds the public that type 2 diabetes often develops from a mix of lifestyle habits and health conditions. Here are some key risk factors to keep in mind:
- Being overweight or obese
- Are 45 years old and above
- Have a family history of type 2 diabetes
- Lack or absence of regular physical activity (less than three times a week)
- Confirmed diagnosis of a non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
- Experienced gestational diabetes or gave birth to a baby weighing over 9 pounds.
Why is it Considered a Lifestyle Disease?
Type 2 diabetes is the most common form, accounting for about 90-95% of all cases. According to the WHO, diabetes used to be associated with adults; however, it is increasingly being diagnosed in adolescents and even children. This form of diabetes often develops gradually and may not exhibit obvious symptoms in its early stages, making regular screening essential for anyone at risk.
This rise in type 2 diabetes cases is closely linked to lifestyle factors such as poor diet, inactivity, and obesity. Many Filipinos today lead to sedentary lives, spending long hours sitting at a desk, watching television, scrolling on mobile devices, or playing video games. These activities reduce physical movement, slow down metabolism, and contribute to weight gain. Over time, these factors result in elevated blood sugar levels and, eventually diabetes. Other factors like stress and poor sleeping habits, can also affect the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar.
Type 2 diabetes is often referred to as lifestyle disease because your daily routines and choices play crucial role in either increasing or reducing your risk.
Health Awareness Campaign
As part of Care Center Clinic’s health awareness initiatives, we launched the TikTok series “Let’s Talk Weight, Not Hate.” In this series, Dr. Hildegardes Dineros dives into conversations about lifestyle diseases such as diabetes, highlighting how small, consistent changes can make a big impact on long-term health.
The series also features Clark Flores, a young individual who is struggling with his weight. Follow the Care Center Clinic on Tiktok and witness Clark’s journey as he shifts to healthier habits and learns to embrace self-awareness no shame.
Final Thought
Diabetes can affect anyone, at any age, but early detection and mindful decisions can make a real difference. This World Diabetes Day, start your commitment to making better lifestyle choices.
Worries about diabetes for yourself or a loved one? Don’t wait-get checked today!
Visit the Care Center Clinic, a Philhealth Yakap-accredited medical clinic, for a consultation to determine your blood sugar level and assess your risk for diabetes. We provide diagnostic services for people at risk of this disease. Early detection can make all the difference.