Antigua and Barbuda Diabetes Association joins global community to mark 2025 World Diabetes Day & Awareness Month
The Antigua and Barbuda Diabetes Association (ABDA) joins the global community in recognizing World Diabetes Day and Awareness Month under the theme “Diabetes and Well-Being,” with a 2025 focus on “Diabetes and the Workplace.”
World Diabetes Day (WDD), observed annually on November 14, is the world’s largest diabetes awareness campaign. It aims to raise awareness surrounding the health impact of diabetes,
promote prevention and early diagnosis, and advocate for access to care and treatment.
The blue circle is the global symbol for diabetes, representing life, health, and unity. The color blue reflects the sky and the United Nations flag, symbolizing hope and the collective commitment to
improving diabetes awareness, support and care.
This Year’s Focus: Diabetes and the Workplace
According to the International Diabetes Federation almost 589 million adults (1 in 9 people) live with diabetes, and more than 40% are unaware that they have the condition. In Antigua and
Barbuda, an estimated 11.7% of adults (1 in 8 people) aged 20-79 years live with diabetes.
Many people living with diabetes are of working age therefore the workplace plays a critical role in supporting diabetes prevention and care. Long work hours, poor stress management, limited
physical activity, and unhealthy diets can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and worsen blood sugar control in persons living with diabetes. With that in mind, supportive
workplaces can help improve employee health and well-being through health education activities, facilitating access to screening and care, and implementing sustainable workplace wellness
policies or programs.
“As adults, we tend to spend most of our waking hours at work. Our workplaces can play a pivotal role in diabetes prevention and management,” said Charity Dublin, President of ABDA and Public
Health Nutritionist. “Workplaces can either derail or enhance our individual efforts to lead healthier lives. Healthier work environments coupled with effective workplace wellness initiatives
can help employees feel, live and work better.”
ABDA echoes the international call to action for employers and employees around the world and here in Antigua and Barbuda to “Know more and do more for diabetes at work”.
ABDA acknowledges the continued support of its key 2025 partners, including the Ministry of Health, Wellness, Environment & Civil Service Affairs; Medical Benefits Scheme; Heart and Stroke
Foundation, Antigua and Barbuda; Lions Club of Antigua; Antigua Public Utilities Authority; National Public Library; St. Johns SDA Church; Ministry of Housing and Works; MOS Medical
Services; Ministry of Education, Sports and Creative Industries; National School Meals Program; Paediatric Department of the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre; and Various Media Houses.
Program of Activities:
Throughout November, ABDA and its partners will host a variety of events aimed at engaging the public, promoting healthy lifestyles, and supporting people living with diabetes. Activities include:
• 14 Nov: Media Day — Media appearances and awareness engagements
• 14 Nov: Go Blue Day — Wear blue in support of people living with diabetes
• 15 Nov: Church Service — St. John’s SDA Church, 9:00 am
• 18 Nov: Workplace Screening & Education Day — Ministry of Works, 6:30 am -12:00 pm
• 18 Nov: House Calls — ABS Television, 8:30 pm
• 19 Nov: Water Wednesday — APUA Business Center, High Street, 10:00 am to noon
• 19 Nov: Public Webinar — Zoom: “Balancing Work and Wellness”, 5:30 pm
• 20 Nov: Students’ Health Expo — National Public Library, 9:00 am to 1:00 pm
• 22 Nov: Strides Blue Light Walk — Lion’s Den, 5:30 pm
• 26 Nov: Diabetes Health Fair — MOS Medical Services, 11:00 am – 5:00 pm
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