Colombo Call to Action: WHO and Sri Lanka Unite to Combat Diabetes
Colombo Call to Action: WHO and Sri Lanka Unite to Combat Diabetes
In Colombo, Sri Lanka, health experts and officials have adopted the 'Colombo Call to Action' to tackle the increasing diabetes burden in the WHO South-East Asia Region. This initiative aims to enhance diabetes prevention and control, aligning with WHO's Global Diabetes Compact. The Compact focuses on reducing diabetes risks and ensuring quality care for those diagnosed.
Diabetes leads to over 482,000 deaths annually in the region, causing severe health complications and economic losses. Saima Wazed, WHO South-East Asia Regional Director, emphasized the need for equitable and accessible diabetes care during the World Diabetes Day 2024 event themed 'Breaking Barriers, Bridging Gaps'.
The event, attended by over 100 experts and officials, was organized by the Sri Lankan Ministry of Health and WHO. Hansaka Wijemuni, Sri Lanka's Deputy Minister of Health, highlighted the country's commitment to combating diabetes through initiatives like SEAHEARTS.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stressed the urgency of addressing diabetes, noting the global rise in cases. The Call to Action prioritizes strengthening primary healthcare, improving access to medicines, and promoting healthy lifestyles. By 2025, the region aims to manage 100 million people with diabetes and hypertension.
Despite progress, challenges remain, especially for children with type 1 diabetes. The Regional Director called for a collective effort to ensure equitable and high-quality diabetes care for all.
Doubts Revealed
Colombo
Colombo is the capital city of Sri Lanka, a country located south of India. It is an important city where many international meetings and events take place.
WHO
WHO stands for the World Health Organization. It is a special agency of the United Nations that works to improve health and well-being around the world.
Diabetes
Diabetes is a health condition where the body has trouble controlling the amount of sugar in the blood. It can lead to serious health problems if not managed properly.
South-East Asia Region
The South-East Asia Region is a part of the world that includes countries like India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and others. It is one of the regions where WHO focuses its health efforts.
Global Diabetes Compact
The Global Diabetes Compact is a plan by WHO to help countries around the world prevent and manage diabetes better. It aims to make sure everyone gets good care.
Saima Wazed
Saima Wazed is a health expert and the WHO Regional Director for South-East Asia. She works to improve health care in this region.
Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus
Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus is the Director-General of the World Health Organization. He leads the organization in its efforts to improve global health.
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