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Contact: Amanda Faye Clarke
Friday, November 6, 2009 – As Saint Lucia joins the rest of the international community in observing World Diabetes Day, the Saint Lucia Diabetic and Hypertensive Association, has made yet another call for citizens to take responsibility for their health.
President of the Association, Cuthbert St. Juste, says his message is one of empowerment and encouragement. Health officials he says, are continually seeking to broaden the knowledge and understanding of diabetes.
He calls on the Government to work in partnership with the Saint Lucia Diabetic and Hypertensive Association, in implementing effective strategies and policies for the prevention and management of diabetes.
“Diabetes is difficult. It imposes lifelong demands, requiring us to make big decisions relating to managing our conditions. Because of this, people with diabetes must receive high quality diabetic education that is tailored to their needs. Without such education, people with diabetes will be less prepared to take enforced decisions, make behavioural changes, and address the pshyco-social issues presented by diabetes,” St. Juste says.
St. Juste says, at present, type 1 diabetes which is common in children, cannot be prevented; however, type 2 diabetes can be prevented in many cases, by remaining active and consuming nutritionally beneficial foods.
Saint Lucia will observe World Diabetes Day on the 14th of November. The event will be held under the theme, “Diabetes Education is Prevention-Understand Diabetes and Take Control”. |
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