Diabetes is a natural born killer but healthy diet and lifestyle key in its management, says Brunei medical expert

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN (Borneo Bulletin/ANN): Diabetes is the fourth highest cause of death in Brunei after cancer, heart disease and cerebrovascular disease, said Acting Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Health (MoH) Dr Rafidah Gharif.

She said this as the guest of honour during the World Diabetes Day 2024 event at The Mall in Gadong on Sunday.

The National Survey of Non-Communicable Diseases 2015-2016 found that 9.7 per cent of adults in Brunei have diabetes, primarily Type 2, Dr Rafidah added. This form of diabetes results from high blood sugar, often linked to an unhealthy lifestyle, including poor diet, inactivity and excess weight.

She added that diabetes caused 6.7 million deaths in 2021 and is also the leading cause of vision loss, kidney failure, heart attack, stroke and lower limb amputation.

This year’s theme, she added, ‘Diabetes and the Well-Being of All’, emphasises the importance of holistic care that includes mental health, physical activity, nutrition, and social support.

“Managing diabetes can be challenging, with stress potentially worsening blood sugar control. So stress management techniques, physical activity and support are crucial,” she said.

In addressing diabetes and obesity, the MoH introduced a code to limit unhealthy food ads for children and imposing a tax on sugary drinks, Dr Rafidah said. Initiatives like the ‘Healthier Choice’ logo and the BN on the Move programme aim to promote healthy eating and physical activity. Increasing diabetes awareness through continuous education is key to prevention and control.

This year, the MoH launched a diabetes awareness campaign in secondary schools, educating students about diabetes prevention. The BALANCE programme on the BruHealth app offers guidance on diet, exercise and blood sugar monitoring for people with Type 2 diabetes.

A Diabetes Symposium in conjunction with World Diabetes Day 2024 will be held on November 10, focusing on ‘Diabetes and Well-Being’ for healthcare professionals.

Dr Rafidah encouraged everyone to help combat diabetes by raising awareness, adopting healthier lifestyles and strengthening healthcare.

The event also featured a talk by Kumpulan Pengangun Senegara founder and diabetes patient Ajijah Momin, health screenings, expert consultations, an interactive game booth on healthy diet and exercise and a children’s activity area.

The event began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah followed by welcoming remarks by Medical Specialists (Endocrine) at Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha Hospital Dr Seenaj Chandran, as the chairperson of the World Diabetes Day 2024 organising committee.

World Diabetes Day, celebrated worldwide every November 14, recognises the global threat of the disease and aims to raise awareness on it, along with challenges faced in managing it.

It also serves as a platform for collective commitment from individuals, health professionals and policy makers in better prevention, diagnosis and management of diabetes. – Borneo Bulletin/ANN