Diabetes is the third leading cause of death in Brunei Darussalam, serving as a reminder of its impact and why it should be kept under control.
The World Diabetes Day is marked not only for awareness but also a call for action. It is an opportunity to renew commitment for diabetes prevention, early detection or diagnosis, and provide the best treatment.
Acting Specialist (Endocrine) at Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) Hospital Dr Shazwani binti Haji Mat Salleh said this during the World Diabetes Day event at The Mall in Gadong yesterday.
She added that prevention is important in controlling diabetes while for those with the condition, effective management is crucial in avoiding serious complications that may lead to death.
Dr Shazwani said the Sultanate is seeing an increase in childhood obesity as well as children diagnosed with diabetes. Brunei has the highest childhood obesity rate in Southeast Asia, at 40 per cent, calling for action including adopting a healthy lifestyle, having a balanced diet, regular physical activities and weight management.
The event also saw Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar present prizes to five winners of an art competition, organised by RIPAS Hospital’s Paediatric Department.
Other activities lined up for the event included health screening, educational booths on childhood diabetes, foot care for diabetic patients and obesity.
There were also an exercise session open for public participation and sharing sessions from different units at RIPAS Hospital. – Rokiah Mahmud
