Residents have been urged to put their health first by a charity that will offer a series of free screenings for various conditions this month.

The Bermuda Diabetes Association will team up with its local partners and the Lahey Clinic of Massachusetts for the expert-led professional development and community events, being held to mark Diabetes Awareness Month.

It said that the screenings, which will be held at its headquarters at 22 Princess Street in Hamilton, highlight “how a simple health check today could make all the difference tomorrow”.

The events include an open house for general health checks, specialist eye screening, a diabetes peer support forum as well as foot and prostate screenings.

Lori Rockhead, the BDA executive director, said: “Early action can make a lasting difference when it comes to diabetes.

“Whether it’s recognising your risk, attending a routine screening or making small changes to your lifestyle, taking that first step is often the most important.

“This year’s theme — ‘Early Action on Diabetes’ — is particularly meaningful because many diabetes-related complications can develop without obvious symptoms.

“We want to encourage people not to wait until something feels wrong before taking an interest in their health.

“Our November programme is designed to make that first step easier, offering free access to health screenings, specialist expertise and practical support.

“Whether you're living with diabetes, supporting someone who is or simply looking to improve your wellbeing, there’s an opportunity for everyone to get involved.”

At the open house on Friday, residents can visit the BDA for complimentary blood pressure and blood glucose screenings, speak directly with pharmacists and dietitians, and discover simple ways to improve their everyday health.

Chef Rachel Wilks of Two Fish in a Barrel, will also host live cooking demonstrations between noon and 2pm, sharing practical ideas for preparing nutritious and tasty meals dishes.

In partnership with the Lahey Clinic, the charity hosts ophthalmologist David Ramsey and optometrist Mahesh Bhardwaj, who will provide free specialist eye screenings between November 16 and 18 for people living with diabetes.

The appointment-only screenings will assess for signs of diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma and macular degeneration, helping to identify potential concerns before they progress to serious vision problems.

They are particularly encouraged for those who have had diabetes for ten or more years and have not seen an eye doctor.

On November 16 at 6pm, Kennita Perry, a registered psychotherapist and certified counsellor, and Dinamarie Garcia-Banigan, an endocrinologist of the Lahey Clinic, will host a diabetes peer support session to bring together expert medical advice and offer an open conversation.

On November 17, between 9am and 1pm, Jonathan Makanjuola of the DailyMale will offer free prostate-specific antigen blood tests from his mobile health van at the BDA.

The charity said the tests can help identify potential prostate health concerns, including those that may require further investigation for prostate cancer.

On November 25 from 9am to 4pm, the BDA will partner with Atlantic Podiatry to offer foot screenings with Matthew Francis, a UK-trained podiatrist.

During each ten-minute consultation, participants with diabetes will receive an assessment of their foot health, including circulation, sensation and potential signs of diabetes-related complications.

Dr Garcia-Banigan said the Lahey Clinic was happy to again team up with the BDA for the Diabetes Awareness Month schedule.

She said: “Last year's was a wonderful reminder of just how much can be achieved when healthcare professionals and the community come together.

“We had the opportunity to meet so many people, answer important questions and encourage conversations about health that might not otherwise have happened.

“It's a privilege to return to Bermuda and continue our partnership with the Bermuda Diabetes Association.”

• For more information, including booking details, visit www.diabetes.bm