NOVEMBER 14 - WORLD DIABETES DAY

Every 5 seconds, a new case of diabetes is diagnosed worldwide. Children and teenagers are increasingly being diagnosed. Today, more than 1 million children globally have type 1 diabetes, and this number continues to grow steadily. According to IDF forecasts, by 2030, the number of diabetes cases among children and adolescents could increase by 60%.

This concerning statistic indicates that more young patients will require insulin therapy, which is vital for survival and organ function. The hormone insulin helps cells absorb energy. When insulin is absent, the body weakens, and internal organs suffer from a deficiency of glucose.

The childhood of such patients becomes a struggle for each stable day: multiple daily injections, ongoing therapy, blood glucose monitoring, and diet. However, most cases of type 2 diabetes are preventable despite everything. Prevention starts not in the hospital, but at home, school, and playground.

We have gathered a list of expert recommendations on simple habits that can help protect your child from the potential risk of diabetes.

• Move together. At least 1 hour of activity per day, walks, games, sports, dancing - basic habits for preventing the appearance of signs of diabetes.
• Less sweet drinks, more water. One liter of lemonade is 20 teaspoons of sugar. Review your children's daily diet and work on forming healthy eating habits.
• Healthy snacks. Fruits, nuts, and sugar-free yogurt are a great alternative to cookies and bars, making it a healthy habit. Warn children against eating extra-harmful foods.
• Weight control. Excess weight is a key risk factor for type 2 diabetes. Pay attention to your child's body mass index.
• Regular check-ups. Check your blood glucose level at least once a year, especially if there is a family history of diabetes.

In a world where children face war, stress, and a lack of healthy food every day, diabetes is becoming another silent enemy. But even in this fight, there are allies — informed parents, attentive doctors, and an educated society. Because prevention is not just medicine. It is an act of love for your own children.

Let's take care of those who are just learning to live. And let's not forget: a healthy childhood today is a strong nation tomorrow!

Please, sign the petition to provide patients with type 1 diabetes with sensors for continuous blood glucose monitoring at state expense: https://petition.kmu.gov.ua/petitions/8835