World Diabetes Day

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Logo for World Diabetes Day

World Diabetes Day is the primary global awareness campaign of the diabetes world. It was introduced in 1991 by the International Diabetes Federation and the World Health Organization in response to the alarming rise of diabetes around the world. World Diabetes Day is a campaign that features a new theme chosen by the International Diabetes Federation each year to address issues facing the global diabetes community. While the campaigns last the whole year, the day itself is held on November 14. This marks the birthday of Frederick Banting who, along with Charles Best, first conceived the idea which led to the discovery of insulin in 1922.

Each year World Diabetes Day is centred on a theme related to diabetes. Topics covered in the past have included diabetes and human rights, diabetes and lifestyle, diabetes and obesity, and diabetes in the disadvantaged and the vulnerable. In 2007 and 2008, the theme of World Diabetes Day is Diabetes in Children and Adolescents.

Diabetes is one of the most common chronic diseases of childhood. It can strike children at any age, including infants and toddlers. The International Diabetes Federation's two year focus on children through the World Diabetes Day campaign, aims to increase awareness among parents and caregivers, teachers, healthcare professionals, politicians and the public. Every child has a right to a long and healthy life.