World Diabetes Day, with the theme slogan "Know your Risk, Know your Response," was held last 14 November.

To mark the event, Novo Nordisk Philippines, in collaboration with the local government of Quezon City, the Royal Danish Embassy Manila, South Star Drug and key medical organizations spearheaded the Global Diabetes Walk in the Philippines.

Themed "Walk for Change," it highlighted the importance of taking steps to prevent diabetes.

The Global Diabetes Walk is a worldwide initiative dedicated to raising diabetes awareness and promoting healthy lifestyles, presenting an opportunity for people worldwide to unite to support those affected by diabetes and advocate for measures to prevent and manage this disease.

Communities worldwide joined to demonstrate solidarity with those living with diabetes.

Diabetes has long been a significant health concern in the Philippines. Novo Nordisk urges diabetes patients, families, caregivers and stakeholders to understand the importance of these factors in tackling the disease.

"The collaboration between the Royal Danish Embassy and Novo Nordisk Philippines is a testament to the power of shared knowledge and best practices. Our joint commitment to 'knowing' — knowing your risk, knowing your response — serves as the foundation for our efforts to bring the best of Danish healthcare support to the Filipino people.

We stand united in our mission to enhance diabetes care and promote a healthier future for all," said Ambassador Franz-Michael "Dan-Dan" Mellbin.

Novo Nordisk Philippines, together with its partners, emphasizes the significance of recognizing the risk of Type 2 diabetes. Understanding this risk can play a pivotal role in delaying or preventing the condition and addressing the consequences of diabetes-related complications.

According to the World Health Organization, approximately one in 10 adults worldwide has diabetes, with over 90 percent affected by Type 2 diabetes, and nearly half of these cases remain undiagnosed.

"Our dedicated Quezon City Health Department is the frontline for public health, taking concrete steps not only in diabetes prevention but also in detection, screening, and treatment.

With 66 health centers providing free medicines for indigent citizens dealing with high blood pressure, hypertension, diabetes and high cholesterol, we ensure that no one is left behind in their healthcare journey," Mayor Joy Belmonte said.

For individuals living with diabetes, access to accurate information, the right medicines and self-care tools is critical to delaying or preventing complications.

Healthcare professionals also play a crucial role, requiring access to adequate training and resources to detect complications early and provide optimal care.

"South Star Drug recognizes the pivotal role that pharmacies play in our communities. We are more than just places to pick up prescriptions; we are crucial points of care, dedicated to enhancing public health, and offering screening and prevention services for diabetes.

As consumers' trusted partners we ensure they know their risk, understand their response and take proactive steps toward a healthier future," Mariel Crisostomo, general manager, said.

Apart from pharmaceutical care, medical organizations also play a role in paving the way for a future where people living with diabetes have a better quality of life. "Novo Nordisk Philippines continually drives initiatives such as this event to raise awareness about diabetes.

Globally, this year also marks our 100 years, and we renew our commitment to drive change for a healthy world today, and for generations to come.

We strive to offer improved access to diabetes management, equipping individuals with the knowledge and resources needed to lead healthier lives.

We created a website where people can find the tools and information they need to take charge of their diabetes journey. We want to empower people living with diabetes, so they can better manage their health.

Our commitment to innovation and access to treatments and information drives us forward on the path toward a healthier, diabetes-resilient future," Dr. Neslie Buena-Bobis, Clinical, Medical, Regulatory and Pharmcovigilance director, said.

In the fight against diabetes, knowing is indeed half the battle won.