World Diabetes Day 2024

Every year, World Diabetes Day is observed on 14 November to raise awareness about the physical and mental challenges of diabetes. Find out more below.
Female nurse carrying out a prick blood test on a male patient.

World Diabetes Day is a global occasion for people with diabetes, healthcare professionals, advocates, policymakers and the public to unite to raise awareness of and take action on diabetes.

Millions of people with diabetes face daily challenges managing their condition at home, work, and school. They must be resilient, organised, and responsible, impacting both their physical and mental well-being. 

A new global survey conducted by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) reveals that 77% of people living with diabetes have experienced anxiety, depression, or another mental health condition because of their diabetes. Diabetes care often focuses only on blood sugar, leaving many overwhelmed.

The theme for World Diabetes Day 2024-26 is “Diabetes and wellbeing” and it aims to remind us of three key messages:

  • Diabetes can affect every part of a person’s life, often having a negative impact on their well-being.
  • Current diabetes care does not include sufficient support for the person’s well-being.
  • Support for the person’s well-being should be prioritised in diabetes care.

What support is available to me?

The Central London Community Healthcare (CLCH) NHS Trust has diabetes teams which provide support to adults with diabetes in a variety of community locations, and in the homes of housebound patients.

Their teams help patients control their diabetes and reduce the risk of short- and long-term complications by providing patients with the skills, knowledge and confidence to self-manage their diabetes effectively.

Find out more about CLCH’s diabetes service and how they support patients to manage their condition here.

North West London Diabetes Guidelines

The North West London Diabetes Guidelines help healthcare practitioners to make good clinical decisions for their patients with diabetes.

The guidelines contain sections on diagnosing non-diabetic hyperglycaemia (NDH), often referred to as pre-diabetes. There is information about diagnosing different types of diabetes and preventing complications including cardiovascular disease, kidney disease and foot disease. Structured education options for patients are also included, helping them to manage the condition.

The guidelines are aimed at all staff working in primary care in North West London, and will be used by clinical staff working in care homes and nursing homes. 

You can read the guidelines here. For further information about the North West London Diabetes Guidelines, please click here or contact the North West London Diabetes Transformation Programme team at nwlccc.diabetes@nhs.net