It's National Diabetes Week from 13 to 19 July. And this year, Diabetes Australia is unveiling a new prevention campaign.
What is the 2014 National Diabetes Campaign?
The diabetes campaign will this year focus on encouraging all Australians to check their type 2 diabetes risk. Incredibly, 58 per cent of cases can be prevented or slowed, if diabetes is detected early enough and the person makes modifications to their lifestyle.
Part of the campaign is recorded personal stories of people living with type 2 diabetes – as well as those who were able to prevent it.
The national campaign will be launched in Melbourne on Wednesday 16 July.
How Can I Get Involved in National Diabetes Week?
There are loads of events on around the country. Simply contact the diabetes awareness organisation in your state or territory.
Diabetes Australia is also asking us all to:
- Visit checkmyrisk.org.au from 13 July. There, you can check your risk of type 2 diabetes and read all about how diabetes can be prevented and managed. There's also a lot of information about diabetes that you may not know.
- Share the campaign on social media, and with your loved ones and community. On Twitter, follow @DiabetesAus with the hashtag #NDW14 or like the Diabetes Australia Facebook page.
- Distribute campaign materials and place them in a popular place. You can send a campaign pack to your stakeholders by emailing your local awareness organisation (such as Diabetes Victoria). You can also download the materials from the website after 13 July.
- Host an event for National Diabetes Week to raise awareness and prompt people to check their risk.
- Go to the launch at SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium on Wednesday 16 July at 8.30am.
How Can I Prevent Type 2 Diabetes?
The best way to avoid diabetes is to lead a healthy lifestyle. Be active every day, eat a variety of fresh whole foods, eliminate processed foods and maintain a healthy weight.
Originally published on Jul 09, 2014
