On November 14, which is recognized globally as World Diabetes Day, Fresenius Medical Care, the foremost provider of innovative products and vital services for individuals grappling with renal diseases, is taking a bold step to enhance awareness surrounding the multifaceted physical and mental challenges faced by millions of patients living with diabetes.
As staggering statistics reveal that approximately 537 million people across the globe are affected by diabetes—equating to roughly one in every ten adults—the demand for holistic care, comprehensive support, and educational initiatives is more pressing than ever. The early indicators of kidney disease are often so discreet that individuals may unwittingly lose up to 90% of their kidney functionality before any noticeable symptoms surface.
Patients endeavoring to maintain their daily routines and live fulfilling lives often find that additional resilience is essential to remain organized and responsible while juggling the complexities of managing their conditions at home, work, and school.
In response to these pressing concerns, Fresenius Medical Care launches its “Living Well” campaign today. This initiative features an expansive array of content offering effective strategies and educational resources delivered through engaging videos curated by qualified experts, including dietitians, psychologists, and social workers, who seek to dispel prevalent myths concerning nutrition and mental health related to diabetes.
Additionally, through the sharing of personal success stories and insights from caregivers, the campaign provides authentic, real-life perspectives on navigating the dual challenges of diabetes and kidney disease. It underscores the critical importance of early detection and a comprehensive understanding of the risk factors associated with Type 2 diabetes, urging individuals to proactively consult with their healthcare providers to effectively manage both the disease and the associated symptoms of diabetic kidney disease.
Four essential ways to manage symptoms of diabetic kidney disease include regularly testing and tracking blood sugar levels, diligently managing blood pressure through the adoption of a healthy, low-sodium diet, engaging in regular physical activity, effectively managing stress levels, and refraining from smoking. It is also paramount to adhere to prescribed medications and make informed dietary choices by diligently reading food labels and opting for high-fiber foods, such as whole grains, fresh fruits, and vegetables.
World Diabetes Day represents the largest diabetes awareness campaign in the world, reaching an impressive global audience of over one billion individuals across 160 countries. This significant day is observed annually on November 14, providing an essential platform for raising awareness about diabetes and its impact on lives worldwide. worlddiabetesday.org.
How does Fresenius Medical Care plan to address the mental health challenges faced by patients with diabetes through their initiatives?
**Interview with Dr. Emily Carter, Chief Health Officer at Fresenius Medical Care**
**Interviewer:** Dr. Carter, thank you for joining us today. Tomorrow is World Diabetes Day; can you tell us a bit about Fresenius Medical Care’s initiatives to mark this important occasion?
**Dr. Carter:** Absolutely, and thank you for having me. On World Diabetes Day, we are proud to launch our “Living Well” campaign, aimed at raising awareness about the challenges faced by individuals living with diabetes, particularly as it relates to kidney health. With approximately 537 million people worldwide affected by diabetes, it’s crucial that we provide comprehensive support and educational resources to those in need.
**Interviewer:** That’s a staggering number. How does diabetes impact kidney health, and what should people be mindful of regarding this connection?
**Dr. Carter:** Diabetes can lead to diabetic nephropathy, a condition that damages the kidneys over time. One of the challenges is that early signs of kidney disease may go unnoticed until significant damage has occurred—sometimes up to 90% of kidney function can be lost without any symptoms. We want to stress the importance of regular check-ups and blood tests for people with diabetes to catch any issues early.
**Interviewer:** With the complexities of managing diabetes, what does the “Living Well” campaign offer to support patients in their daily lives?
**Dr. Carter:** The “Living Well” campaign features a variety of engaging content tailored to empower individuals. This includes videos, tips for managing diabetes, nutritional guidance, and mental health resources. We aim to provide strategies that can help patients integrate their medical care into their daily routines, whether at home, work, or school.
**Interviewer:** Mental health is often overlooked in chronic disease management. How does your campaign address this aspect?
**Dr. Carter:** It’s critical to recognize that living with diabetes can take an emotional toll. Our campaign includes resources focused on mental well-being, such as coping strategies, stress management techniques, and support group information. Creating a supportive community is vital for resilience and the overall health of our patients.
**Interviewer:** what message do you hope to convey to those living with diabetes on World Diabetes Day?
**Dr. Carter:** Our message is one of hope and empowerment. We want individuals with diabetes to know that they are not alone and that there are resources available to help them lead healthier, more fulfilling lives. By participating in campaigns like “Living Well,” we can build a community of support and awareness that tackles the day-to-day challenges of managing diabetes head-on.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Carter, for your insights and the important work Fresenius Medical Care is doing to support individuals living with diabetes.
**Dr. Carter:** Thank you for having me, and I encourage everyone to check out our resources and join us in raising awareness this World Diabetes Day.
