21 diabetic children in the country a red signal: First Lady

While one in every ten people in the Maldives are diagnosed with diabetes, there are currently 21 children who are recorded to be type one diabetic, revealed First Lady Sajidha Mohamed last night, stressing that this is a matter of concern and a red signal which needs to be addressed.

Speaking at the anniversary event of Diabetes Society of Maldives, the First Lady said that the country's public health situation has changed with Maldives climbing the ranks of developing countries.

She detailed that while communicable diseases were a cause of concern earlier, it has shifted to non communicable conditions caused due to lifestyle choices.

"Among such diseases, diabetes is one of the most prevalent in the country," she said, adding that one in ten people in the country suffering from type two diabetes is a statistic of serious concern.

"The other red signal that needs to be highlighted is that there are 21 children who are recorded to have type one diabetes," Sajidha added.

She highlighted that diabetes can affect eyesight and impact the functioning of kidneys, heart and other vital internal organs, urging everyone to adopt healthy lifestyle habits to prevent developing diabetes.

There are three main steps that can be taken to prevent the disease, she said. They are, researching and building self-awareness about the topic, changing lifestyle habits based on this knowledge, and seeking proper care and being extra vigilant if diagnosed with diabetes.

"Being mindful of this when preparing interval [lunches], hosting parties and meeting. Maintaining habits such as exercising," Sajidha said.

"If awareness is created like this, the result will be fruitful. The Diabetes Society is a non-profit organisation that successfully helps people in the Maldives achieve this goal," she further added, highlighting and thanking the efforts of the organisation.

Concluding, the First Lady underscored the need to increase awareness and prevent diabetes as much as possible.