PCGNY.net | News Release

Consulate hosts "Diabetes Awareness Forum" in commemoration of World Diabetes Day

PHILIPPINE CONSULATE - NEWS RELEASE
02 December 2006

NEW YORK --- The Philippine Consulate General New York, in partnership with the Jamaica Estates Altus Lions Club, commemorated World Diabetes Day (November 14) by holding a Diabetes Awareness Forum.

NY PCG and the Altus Lions Club organized blood glucose and blood pressure testing at the Lobby of the Philippine Center. Over 60 persons, led by the Consul General, were tested and given lifestyle and medical advise by the volunteer nurses and physicians who participated.

A forum entitled “Getting to Know Diabetes: Its Causes and Natural Remedies” followed. Speakers included two leading New York-based cardiologists, a nutrition consultant, and a spokesperson from the maker’s of Charantea USA, an ampalaya (bitter-melon) based tea manufactured in the Philippines. Ampalaya was introduced as a beneficial food supplement which can regulate the body’s blood sugar.

In attendance were volunteer nutritionists, physicians, nurses and members of Filipino community who shared the Consulate General’s desire to help to the public understand, prevent, or at least delay, the onset of the disease and its debilitating effects.

Participants were surprised to learn that among Asians, Filipinos ranked second only to Indians in terms of having diabetes. Experts identified the prevalence of fatty foods in our cuisine and the high amount of sugar, mostly in the form of soft drinks, in the diet of Filipinos both in the Philippines and abroad. Awareness being the first step to prevention and control, experts advised regular testing to all Filipinos, whether or not they have a medical (or family) history that puts them at risk. Information on health facilities and services offered by the New York public health system to those without medical insurance, regardless of immigration status, was also discussed.

The World Health Organization estimates that more than 200 million people worldwide are affected by diabetes. This number is projected to increase to 350 million by 2025. Each year over 3 million deaths are tied directly to the disease, the fourth leading cause of death (by disease) globally. At least 50% of those suffering from diabetes are unaware of their condition, complications of which could lead to visual impairment, blindness, kidney diseases, nerve damage, cardiovascular disease (CVD), foot problems, skin problems and frequent infections that could escalate such that the only treatment left is amputation.

Health awareness, particularly of diseases to which the Filipino community is vulnerable, is one of the thrusts of NY PCG.