Message from the Minister of Health – Diabetes Awareness Month and World Diabetes Day

Statement

The Honorable Mark Holland, Minister of Health, issued a statement to mark Diabetes Awareness Month and World Diabetes Day.

November 14, 2024 | Ottawa, Ontario | Public Health Agency of Canada

Diabetes affects approximately 1 in 10 people in Canada, and more than 200,000 new cases are diagnosed each year. Throughout Diabetes Awareness Month, and today on World Diabetes Day, we are raising awareness about this disease and what we can do to improve the lives of those affected by diabetes in Canada.

As the Canadian population ages, the number of people with diabetes is expected to continue to increase. Although some types of diabetes cannot be prevented, such as type 1 diabetes and gestational diabetes, a healthy lifestyle can help prevent or delay diabetes complications and reduce the risk of developing prediabetes or diabetes. type 2. There are many ways to live a healthy lifestyle, including being physically active, following Canada’s Food Guide, maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding smoking. To reduce your chances of developing diabetes, it is also important to discuss symptoms with healthcare professionals.

Diabetes medications are essential for managing the disease and reducing the risk of serious complications. As part of the Act concerning prescription drug insurance, which received royal assent on October 10, 2024, our government is working with provinces and territories to sign bilateral agreements that will provide universal access to a range of contraceptives and diabetes medications under the first phase of the regime national and universal drug insurance. Additionally, the government is creating a fund to support Canadians’ access to the supplies people with diabetes need to manage, monitor their condition, and administer their medications.

The Government of Canada is taking steps to improve our understanding of diabetes and to advance the prevention, management and treatment of this disease through various investments and multi-sectoral and community initiatives. The continued implementation of the Diabetes Framework in Canada is fundamental to this work. This guidance document was developed in consultation with provincial and territorial governments, Indigenous communities, people living with diabetes, academics, researchers and other stakeholders. Since its release, we have continued to engage people in Canada through a series of dialogues to advance the Framework, including collaborating with key partners and stakeholders on initiatives that affect diabetes in Canada. It’s also about providing reliable data and identifying changing trends over time through the Canadian Chronic Disease Surveillance System, which monitors more than 20 chronic diseases and conditions, such as diabetes, as well as other selected health outcomes.

Together, we work to improve the health and quality of life of the millions of people living with diabetes in Canada. This year, let’s act to reduce the risk of developing diabetes and prevent complications related to the disease.

The Honorable Mark Holland, PC, MP