(JIS):
The Ministry of Health is encouraging persons who have been diagnosed with
diabetes, to get screened for depression as well. In an interview with JIS News, acting director of the Health Promotion and Protection Branch at the Ministry of Health, Dr. Tamu Davidson-Sadler, explained that studies have shown that depression is high in persons who have diabetes. According to Dr. Davidson-Sadler, mental health is a critical component for many persons with chronic illnesses, including diabetes. “There is no good health without mental health, so it is critical that all relevant components are part of a holistic approach to treating with diabetes” she said. “As a part of our national guidelines we have a recommendation that anyone who has diabetes should be screened for depression,” she added.
The acting director emphasized that diabetes is a serious and debilitating disease that affects 400 million persons worldwide.
World Diabetes Day was observed on Friday, November 14, and the focus was on healthy living and diabetes.
Dr. Davidson-Sadler outlined that evidence shows that beyond medication, healthy living is an important component in preventing diabetes. She explained that healthy living includes being aware of the four major risk factors of diabetes – physical inactivity, tobacco use, harmful use of alcohol and unhealthy eating habits – and ensuring that lifestyles conform accordingly.
. World Diabetes Day was created in 1991 by the International Diabetes Federation and the World Health Organization, in response to growing concerns about the escalating health threat that diabetes now poses.
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