HSA to focus on screening for World Diabetes Day
Cayman Islands Hospital
(CNS Local Life): The Cayman Islands will mark World Diabetes Day on Monday, 14 November 2016, along with millions of people around the globe. The International Diabetes Federation sets the date, with the aim of raising awareness of diabetes and the importance of screening to ensure early diagnosis and treatment of this long-term medical condition.
In observance of the day, the Cayman Islands Health Services Authority (HSA) is holding a number of events focusing on this year’s theme, “Eyes on Diabetes”.
These include an educational session with an ophthalmologist, dietician and pharmacist from the HSA. The session will take place in the Hibiscus Conference Room at the Cayman Islands Hospital on 10 November at 5:30pm and is open to the public, especially people with diabetes.
There will also be free eye screening for glaucoma, blood glucose and cholesterol testing in the hospital atrium on 9 November from 9am to 2pm.
Diabetes can lead to severe complications, substantial disability and premature death. In many countries it is a leading cause of blindness, cardiovascular disease, kidney failure and lower-limb amputation.
“We encourage persons to take part in our World Diabetes Day events where possible,” said community dietician Tamara Riley. “The key to detection and therefore successful management of diabetes is screening, so we want all residents to help take responsibility for their health by getting the recommended checks.
“If you cannot attend the events, then please make sure you have a health check-up with your doctor, especially if you have a family history of diabetes.”
Category: Medical and Health
