The Cayman Islands will mark World Diabetes Day on Monday, 14 November 2016, along with millions of people around the globe.

The date is set by the International Diabetes Federation, aiming to raise awareness of diabetes and the importance of screening to ensure early diagnosis and treatment of this long term medical condition.

In observance of World Diabetes Day, the Cayman Islands Health Services Authority is holding a number of events focusing on this year’s theme “Eyes on Diabetes”.

These include an educational session with ophthalmologist Dr. Cilliers, dietician Tamara Riley and pharmacist Winsome Jefferson, from the Health Services Authority. The session will take place in the Hibiscus Conference Room at the Cayman Islands Hospital on 10 November at 5.30 p.m. and is open to the public, especially persons with diabetes.

There will also be free eye screening for glaucoma, blood glucose and cholesterol testing in the hospital atrium on 9 November from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Diabetes is an illness which can lead to severe complications, substantial disability and premature death. In many countries it is a leading cause of blindness, cardiovascular disease, kidney failure and lower-limb amputation.

“We encourage persons to take part in our World Diabetes Day events where possible,” said Tamara Riley, community dietician. “The key to detection and therefore successful management of diabetes is screening, so we want all residents to help take responsibility for their health by getting the recommended checks.

“If you cannot attend the events, then please make sure you have a health check-up with your doctor, especially if you have a family history of diabetes.”

Last year there were 415 million adults living with the condition, and the number is expected to increase to around 642 million – or one in 10 adults – by 2040.