World Diabetes Day 2024: Breaking Barriers, Bridging Gaps

On November 21, a vibrant community event commemorating World Diabetes Day was held in Kirivong District, Takeo Province, organized by the Department of Preventive Medicine of the Ministry of Health in collaboration with the Takeo Health Department and local authorities. Supported by Changing Diabetes in Children (CDiC), a project funded by Novo Nordisk, the event, themed “Breaking Barriers, Bridging Gaps,” called for collective efforts to address the growing challenge of diabetes in Cambodia.

Diabetes is a rising global health concern, and Cambodia is no exception. The disease accounts for 2% of deaths in the country, with about 6% of the population living with diabetes, and many more may be unaware of their condition until it is too late.

Representatives from communities, students, health professionals and development partners gathered at Odtumpor Krom Pagoda in Takeo Province to mark World Diabetes Day.

The event features a keynote address by H.E. Dr. Ngov Kang, Secretary of State of the Ministry of Health.

Presiding over the event, H.E. Dr. Ngov Kang, Secretary of State of the Ministry of Health, stressed the importance of early detection. He emphasized that one of the Ministry of Health’s priorities is bringing health screening closer to the people by making services available at health centers and ensuring a consistent supply of essential medications for diabetes across all health centers and hospitals.

He also encouraged people with diabetes to seek appropriate treatment services by visiting the nearest hospital or health center to receive timely care. Doing so helps save time and money, as well as helps them improve their health and manage their condition effectively.

Dr. Meng Piseth, Project Manager at Novo Nordisk, speaks on the impacts of diabetes and what CDiC project has done globally.

Ms. Chi Socheat, Country Director of PSI Cambodia, gives updates on the progress of the Changing Diabetes in Children (CDiC), a project funded by Novo Nordisk.

A key highlight of the event was the participation of young people with type 1 diabetes and their families. They shared their personal stories, spoke about the challenges of living with diabetes, and encouraged others to get tested and adopt healthy lifestyles. Their experiences underscored the importance of having skilled healthcare workers, supported by ongoing training, and ensuring a consistent supply of insulin to help people with diabetes manage their condition.

PSI Cambodia through CDiC works with 14 hospitals across the country. The project focuses on identifying children and young people with type 1 diabetes and ensuring they receive the care and support they need. So far, nearly 1,000 children and young adults, up to the age of 25, have signed up for care and treatment at the 14 partner hospitals.

Dr. Sok Kong of the Department of Preventive Medicine (PMD) leads the quiz and discussion on the impacts of diabetes with participants.

A student holds a flyer providing information on type 1 diabetes.

The project also makes sure healthcare providers have the right materials and resources to conduct patient education effectively. This includes practical training, easy-to-use tools, and information designed specifically for children and young adults with diabetes and their families.

By supporting the World Diabetes Day event, the project helps shine a spotlight on efforts to promote better understanding of diabetes, push for better healthcare, and inspire action to make life better for people with diabetes.

The event featured a “Walk for Health” activity.

The Walk symbolized collective effort needed to address diabetes and other health challenges and a reminder of how staying active can help prevent and manage diabetes.