News Staff

Free diabetes and lung disease screenings will be offered to island residents next week.

Jane Hope, clinical manager at the Diabetes Respiratory Endocrine and Metabolism Centre, said: “Bermuda has one of the highest rates of diabetes in the world.

“It is the leading cause of blindness and heart disease on the island.”

Ms Hope said that the side effects of the disease could be avoided through prevention, early detection and proper management.

She added: “Good education has been shown to be as effective at lowering blood sugar levels as many diabetes medications and regular monitoring and appropriate interventions help individuals to avoid the complications of diabetes.”

The screenings — for lung function, blood sugar and blood pressure — are being offered as part of Diabetes and Chronic Lung Disease Awareness Month.

Debbie Barboza, asthma educator at Bermuda Hospitals Board, said: “Anyone over 40 who smokes or has a history of smoking and who finds it difficult to breathe should come in and take the free lung function test.”

She added: “Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a serious lung disease which over time makes it harder to breathe.”

Venetta Symonds, CEO at BHB, said the organisation was pleased to be able to offer the free screenings.

Ms Symonds added: “As healthcare professionals we recognise the importance of early detection and prevention in chronic conditions such as diabetes, asthma and COPD.

“I encourage you to come in and meet our DREAM Centre professionals. They can help your wellness path.”

The screenings will take place at King Edward VII Memorial Hospital on Wednesday November 15 from 11am to 3pm.