Basic Information
World Diabetes Day is observed on November 14 to raise awareness of the effects of diabetes and its complications among people.
Observed on: 14 November
Organized By: UN, WHO, IDF
Introduced in: 1991 (By IDF), 2006 (UN Declaration)
Observed: Worldwide
About World Diabetes Day
First World Diabetes Day (WDD) was observed in 1991 by IDF (International Diabetic Federation) and World Health Organization (WHO) in response to growing concerns about escalating health threats posed by diabetes. On December 20, 2006, the United Nations designated November 14 as World Diabetes Day by a resolution (61/225).
The observation aimed to raise awareness of diabetes, its prevention and complications and the care that people with the condition need. The observation is also aimed to increase awareness of the effects of diabetes and its complications among the general population and professionals in a range of sectors.
The date November 14 is important as it is the birthday of Frederick Banting who along with Charles Best, first conceived the idea which led to the discovery of insulin in 1922.
Activities and Programs on the Day
World Diabetes Day is celebrated all over the world by the International Diabetes Federation and its member associations around the world. Governments, non-governmental organizations, medical and social associations, companies, healthcare professionals are conducting events and programs to raise awareness about diabetes and its complications.
This day is observed with different programs like conferences, workshops, seminars, programs and awareness in local and national media and also in internet, sports events, medical camps for diabetes persons, public information meetings, walks, runs, human blue circles, etc.
Every year the day is observed with a theme to focus on different factors of importance related to diabetes.
Theme for World Diabetes Day
World Diabetes Day 2020 Theme is “The Nurse and Diabetes“
World Diabetes Day 2019 Theme was “The Family and Diabetes“
Diabetes Day 2018 Theme was “The Family and Diabetes“
2017 Theme: Women and diabetes – our right to a healthy future
2016 Theme: Eyes on Diabetes
2015 Theme: Healthy Eating
2014 Theme: Go Blue for Breakfast
2009 – 2013 Theme: Protect our Future: Diabetes Education and Prevention
2007 – 2008 Theme: Diabetes in Children and Adolescents
2006 Theme: Diabetes in the Disadvantaged and the Vulnerable
2005 Theme: Diabetes and Foot Care
2004 Theme: Fight Obesity – Prevent Diabetes
2003 Theme: Diabetes and Kidneys
2002 Theme: Your Eyes and Diabetes
2001 Theme: Diabetes and Cardiovascular Disease
2000 Theme: Diabetes and Lifestyle in the New Millennium
1999 Theme: The Costs of Diabetes
1998 Theme: Diabetes and Human Rights
1997 Theme: Global Awareness: Our Key to a Better Life
1996 Theme: Insulin for Life!
1995 Theme: The Price of Ignorance
1994 Theme: Diabetes and Growing Older
1993 Theme: Growing Up with Diabetes
1992 Theme: Diabetes: A Problem of All Ages in All Countries
1991 Theme: Diabetes Goes Public