Gauteng health commemorates World Diabetes Day

The Gauteng Department of Health (GDH) joined the global community to commemorate World Diabetes Day on November 14.

The provincial commemoration followed hosting of the Diabetes Summit from November 12 to 14 at the Radisson Hotel and Convention Centre in Johannesburg under the theme Innovate for Impact: Transforming the future of Diabetes in South Africa.

Both events highlighted the province’s commitment to tackling diabetes and other non-communicable diseases through public awareness, partnerships, and innovation in care delivery.

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Focus on workplace wellness and early detection

World Diabetes Day was observed under the slogan ‘Know more and do more for diabetes at work’, which emphasised the challenges faced by employees living with diabetes, including stigma, discrimination and misconceptions in the workplace.

The GDH encouraged employers to promote healthier lifestyles, support regular screening and adopt wellness programmes aimed at early detection and prevention. Individuals aged 35 to 75, particularly those who are overweight or obese, were urged to have regular HbA1c blood glucose tests to monitor their risk and improve management.

The department revealed that Gauteng’s overall diabetes control rate had remained steady at around 65% over the past year, showing that just over six in 10 monitored patients achieved reasonable glycaemic control.

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In line with the global theme Diabetes and Well-being, this year’s commemoration promoted a holistic approach to diabetes management, one that addressed the physical, mental and social dimensions of the disease.

As part of the build-up to World Diabetes Day, Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko switched on the blue lights at the Pholosong Regional Hospital, symbolising the province’s commitment to raising awareness about diabetes prevention, management and support.

MEC Calls for innovation and action

Addressing the Diabetes Summit, the MEC called for stronger collaboration between government, civil society, academia and the private sector to reverse the rising tide of diabetes in SA.

She noted that diabetes was not only a health challenge but also an economic and social concern, affecting families, workplaces and communities.

With 70% of people living with diabetes being of working age, she said the disease directly impacted workforce productivity, household income and the healthcare system.

“In Gauteng, we are particularly concerned. Our urban districts, especially Joburg and Tshwane, have some of the highest numbers of insulin-dependent patients.

“Between 23 720 and 25 000 people in the province rely on insulin, and many present with advanced stages of disease. This should move us from words to action,” the MEC said.

She urged participants to see the summit as a platform for dialogue and a catalyst for practical change.

“Diabetes must be tackled across the life course, from childhood obesity and sugary tuckshops to poor diet and inactivity among adults, and complications, such as blindness, kidney failure, and amputations in older persons,” she said.

Empowering communities and strengthening services

The MEC announced that, in the past 18 months, more than 217 787 HbA1c tests were done in Gauteng.

While progress had been made, she was concerned that 35% of patients remained at risk due to poor glycaemic control, underscoring the need for continued lifestyle education, treatment adherence and integrated workplace wellness initiatives.

She commended the Diabetes Alliance and all its partners involved in the three-day summit. It focused on strengthening primary healthcare, innovative care models and cross-sector partnerships.

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“The future of diabetes care lies in our hands in our willingness to innovate, our commitment to equity and our resolve to act together across public, private and academic sectors,” said Nkomo-Ralehoko.

A shared commitment to a healthier Gauteng

Through the summit and the commemoration, the GDH reaffirmed its dedication to building a healthier, more informed, and more proactive society.

It pledged to continue mobilising communities, workers and youth to know their numbers, make healthier choices and manage diabetes with dignity and knowledge.