People living with all types of diabetes, healthcare professionals and advocates are united around the world today to raise awareness about diabetes.  

World Diabetes Day is marked each year on the 14th of November, which is the birthday of Sir Frederick Banting, who co-discovered insulin in 1922. 

Diabetes Australia’s Group CEO Justine Cain said this year the organisation is celebrating progress, achievements and impact. 

“At Diabetes Australia, we believe living with diabetes is about more than numbers, it’s about people and possibility.  

“It’s one year since we launched Diabetes YOUnited – a free national membership program to provide all Australians living with diabetes with access to trusted support and information, no matter their bank balance or post code,” said Ms Cain.   

“Being part of Diabetes YOUnited makes a real difference – 75% of our members said they feel confident in managing their diabetes. 

“And we continue to introduce new initiatives to help all Australians impacted by diabetes, including our $40 million investment in research, innovative industry partnerships, the new 1800PREVENT (type 2 diabetes) service, and an important campaign to raise awareness about prevention of type 2 diabetes and the prevention of complications for people living with all types of diabetes.” 

More than 1.3 million Australians are living with type 2 diabetes and it is estimated that another 500,000 are living with silent, undiagnosed type 2 diabetes. Numbers continue to rise as people are being diagnosed younger and living longer with the condition.   

“We are in the midst of a type 2 diabetes epidemic where one Australian is diagnosed with the condition every 8 minutes,” Ms Cain said. 

“Although genetics play a role in the development of type 2 diabetes, lifestyle changes can help to prevent or delay its onset in up to 58 percent of cases. 

“As part of our commitment to prevention, we launched 1800PREVENT (type 2 diabetes), a free national hotline and website that will support individuals at risk of type 2 diabetes to navigate health resources.” 

To promote the importance of Diabetes YOUnited and 1800PREVENT (type 2 diabetes), Diabetes Australia Ambassador Miguel Maestre made a guest appearance on the Today show this morning, talking about his cookbook which is provided to YOUnited Plus members.  

“Food is more than just sustenance, it’s a powerful tool for mental wellbeing, connection, and joy,” he said.  

“I’m thrilled that my involvement with Diabetes Australia means I can show Australians how tasty, easy and affordable creating nutritious food can be.” 

More information about World Diabetes Day is available on the Diabetes Australia website.