The value of disease prevention through awareness was been emphasised for World Diabetes Day yesterday.

Kim Wilson, the health minister, called on the community to take up regular exercise, choose healthier food and beverages and find effective stress management techniques to head off type 2 diabetes, which is mainly preventable.

“Prioritise overall wellbeing, consider participating in initiatives dedicated to diabetes prevention and inspire others by sharing your commitment to a healthy lifestyle,” she said.

The condition affects 13 per cent of Bermuda’s population, with contributors including sedentary lifestyles, unhealthy diets and genetic predisposition.

Ms Wilson added: “Common symptoms of diabetes include increased thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss or gain, fatigue, blurred vision, slow-healing wounds and tingling or numbness in extremities.

“It's important to note that some individuals may not exhibit noticeable symptoms, emphasising the need for regular check-ups and monitoring.

Consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and management.

Ms Wilson called on those managing their diabetes care to track their numbers and healthcare schedule using the personal diabetes passport, available through the government website. "Above all, prevention is key,“ she said.

The Bermuda Diabetes Association, Bermuda’s leading provider of diabetes education, research, resources and services, is providing a series of public events and health screenings through this month, with details on the charity’s website.