Highlighting Health Risks and Prevention Through Active Living

Diabetes remains a growing health concern globally and in Thailand. In 2021, 537 million people worldwide had diabetes, a number expected to climb to 643 million by 2030. The disease causes 6.7 million deaths annually, equating to one death every 5 seconds. Projections indicate that by 2040, Thailand could have up to 5.3 million diabetes cases. Diabetes also contributes to heart disease, stroke, hypertension, and chronic kidney disease.

To mark World Diabetes Day 2024, the Diabetes Association of Thailand, in partnership with the Association of Thai NCD Alliance, Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, and Novo Nordisk Pharma (Thailand) Limited, is organizing the ‘Bangkok Ride and Run 2024: Reimagine Diabetes Wellbeing.’ The event features cycling, running, and a seminar on diabetes education. Prof. Dr. Tavida Kamolvej and Mr. Sanon Wangsrangboon, Deputy Governors of Bangkok, along with H.E. Mr. Danny Annan, Denmark’s Ambassador to Thailand, will attend the opening ceremony and join the activities at Lan Khon Mueng, Bangkok City Hall.

Prof. Emeritus Dr. Wannee Nitiyanant, President of the Diabetes Association of Thailand, noted that 10 out of 100 Thai adults have diabetes. Around one-third of them are unaware of their condition due to a lack of symptoms. Some individuals can have blood sugar levels between 120-150 mg/dL without noticeable signs. Regular screenings are vital, particularly for those over 35 years old or with obesity or family history. A fasting blood sugar level of 70-99 mg/dL is considered normal, 100-125 mg/dL signals prediabetes, and 126 mg/dL or higher indicates diabetes.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Petch Rawdaree, President of the Association of Thai NCD Alliance, warned that diabetes raises the risk of complications, including high blood pressure, abnormal blood lipids, and heart disease. Over time, it can lead to blindness, dementia, stroke, and other conditions. Working-age adults and younger individuals face higher risks, often linked to obesity. The campaign promotes the belief that diabetes is manageable, aligning with the International Diabetes Federation’s view that people with diabetes can lead normal lives by shifting mindsets and encouraging healthier habits.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tavida Kamolvej emphasized the role of urban planning in improving public health. She outlined three phases of prevention and care. The pre-disease phase focuses on creating accessible spaces for physical activity, such as sidewalks, bike paths, and parks. The intermediate phase highlights early screening to detect diabetes and other related diseases. The final phase focuses on providing better care for patients through improved referral systems between community clinics and hospitals, as well as training volunteers to monitor symptoms for timely treatment.