The Diabetes Association of Barbados (DAB) celebrated its 35th anniversary in April this year.
Several events were scheduled to mark the occasion under the theme “35 years of Diabetes Education”. The commemorative events began on Sunday April 25, with a church service at St. Paul Anglican Church, Bay Street, St. Michael. On Monday April 26, a workshop for all association members was held at the Barbados Legion, Garrison, St. Michael. This was followed by a meeting of the Caribbean Diabetes Association.
The Association also hosted a fun walk from the Mama Mia Restaurant in Wildey, St. Michael to the other Mama Mia Restaurant in Hastings, Christ Church. Participants got the opportunity not only to “Step out for Diabetes”, but were also treated to breakfast and a chance to win various prizes. The week-long activities concluded with a picnic and fun day at Bath, St. John and a health fair held at Independence Square, Bridgetown.
The DAB was founded in April 1975 by Mr. John Grace, Mr. Hugh Mapp, the late Mrs. Dorothy Talma-Monteil, Dr. Don Marshall and Mr. Wilfred Ferguson. They all came to the realisation that while there was literature on diabetes available for free distribution, persons suffering with diabetes were not receiving the necessary attention and guidance to effectively manage their illness, and so sought to change that. The DAB therefore works to advocate, educate and assist those with diabetes.
Headquartered at Woodside Gardens, Bay Street, St. Michael, the association has designated ten satellite regions across Barbados (Northern, Northeastern, West Central, Western, Southern, Eastern, Central Region, Gall Hill, Glebe and a Childrens’ Group) to facilitate widespread outreach. These regions frequently hold lectures at which various topics related to diabetes are discussed by professionals as well as outdoor activities to encourage camaraderie and physical fitness among members.
According to the Ministry of Health, Barbados has an estimated 30,000 diabetics. Over the years, the Association has screened several thousand persons and in the process has offered guidance to “pre-diabetics” on how to avoid getting diabetes in addition to encouraging diabetics to live more balanced lifestyle. Improved nutrition and increased exercise are chief among the healthier lifestyle options the association urges members to adopt.
The DAB is aiming from 2010 to 2025 to halve the World Health Organisation’s projected 100% increase in diabetics to 50%. It is also working to lower amputations by 50%; achieve a 10% recovery in current cases; and to minimise complications such as heart attacks, kidney disease, sight impairment, and dental problems by getting diabetics to better manage their disease.
