Diabetes is swiftly becoming a global health crisis, and Thailand is no exception. Back in 2021, over 537 million people around the world were grappling with this condition, a figure that’s projected to soar to 643 million by 2030. Alarmingly, diabetes claims about 6.7 million lives every year, equating to one life lost every five seconds. As we look ahead to 2040, predictions from the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) warn that Thailand alone could see up to 5.3 million individuals living with diabetes. But it’s not just diabetes itself that’s concerning—it’s a major precursor to other serious non-communicable diseases such as heart ailments, strokes, hypertension, and chronic kidney disease.
To mark World Diabetes Day 2024, the Diabetes Association of Thailand, in an impressive collaboration with the Association of Thai NCD Alliance, Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, and Novo Nordisk Pharma (Thailand) Limited, is hosting the spectacular ‘Bangkok Ride and Run 2024: Reimagine Diabetes Wellbeing.’ This initiative isn’t just a physical event that features cycling and running but also an educational seminar aimed at disseminating comprehensive knowledge about diabetes. By bringing together individuals impacted by diabetes, the event seeks to amplify the call for improved healthcare and management policies concerning the condition.
The event’s significance is underscored by the distinguished presence of officials such as Prof. Dr. Tavida Kamolvej and Mr. Sanon Wangsrangboon, both Deputy Governors of Bangkok, along with H.E. Mr. Danny Annan, the Ambassador of Denmark to Thailand, all of whom will not only grace the opening ceremony but also participate in the activities at Lan Khon Mueng, Bangkok City Hall.
Prof. Emeritus Dr. Wannee Nitiyanant, leading the Diabetes Association of Thailand, unveiled startling statistics: about 10% of adults in Thailand have diabetes, with a worrying one-third unaware due to asymptomatic conditions. Many may even have dangerously elevated blood sugar levels, stretching from 120-150 mg/dL, yet remain oblivious. Hence, regular screening becomes imperative, particularly for those 35 years and above or those with risk factors like obesity or a family history of diabetes. A healthy fasting blood sugar level ranges from 70-99 mg/dL; anything between 100-125 mg/dL flags prediabetes, and 126 mg/dL or above marks diabetes.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Petch Rawdaree, the President of the Thai NCD Alliance, added depth to this narrative by highlighting the complications associated with diabetes, such as hypertension, irregular blood lipids, and heart disease. Over time, these can blossom into catastrophic health issues like blindness, tooth loss, strokes, or dementia, particularly endangering the younger or working-age population. Hence, the event’s ethos aligns with the IDF’s forward-thinking view that ‘diabetes is not a disease,’ advocating for a shift in perspective and motivating individuals with diabetes to lead regular lives.
Highlighting urban planning’s role in health, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tavida Kamolvej pinpointed three phases: the pre-disease phase advocating for activity-friendly environments like better sidewalks and parks, the intermediate phase championing the necessity of health screenings, and the final phase for diabetes patients, emphasizing an efficient referral system between community centers and hospitals, bolstered by trained volunteers for early intervention.
Adding his voice, Mr. Enrico Cañal Bruland, General Manager of Novo Nordisk Pharma (Thailand) Ltd., articulated concerns regarding the rising diabetes incidence and its impending economic impact on Thai healthcare. He asserts, “Everyone deserves a chance for a healthy, normal life with the correct, fair care.” By working closely with the Ministry of Public Health on a 3-year Affordability project and integrating advanced technologies, Novo Nordisk commits to enhancing diabetes awareness and care accessibility, especially in rural stretches of Thailand.
The Bangkok Ride and Run 2024 is more than just an awareness event—it’s a celebration of living well with diabetes. One of the event’s highlights is Mr. Sam Brand, a Type 1 Diabetic and Professional Cyclist with Team Novo Nordisk, who will share his inspiring journey. Diabetes hasn’t held him back; instead, it’s instilled invaluable discipline in him, fueling his career as an athlete. His story is a beacon of hope for others. Additionally, Ms. Marlena Wilson from the IDF Young Leader program will stress the power of technology and community in empowering those with diabetes to achieve their potential, from academic pursuits to professional accomplishments, without the weight of stigma.
Bringing together a panel of experts, the event dives deep into ‘Holistic Wellbeing: A 360-Degree Comprehensive Support’—critical for building an environment nurturing people with diabetes. Discussions will revolve around promoting physical activity, healthy eating, and comprehensive healthcare approaches, right from increasing exercise venue accessibility to enhancing nutrition options with reduced sodium and sugar content, all while ensuring taste satisfaction. Equally important is attending to the mental health needs across all life stages for those battling diabetes, emphasizing patient-centered care.
As the day wraps up, conversations expand to the broader diabetes community with the ‘Societal Wellbeing’ panel session. Here, experts and community stalwarts share their personal narratives and wisdom concerning life with diabetes, spotlighting the crucial role community and sustained healthcare play in not just managing but thriving with diabetes.
This event seems great, but isn’t it more important to focus on finding a cure rather than just coping mechanisms?
Realistically, finding a cure is far off. Meanwhile, events like this improve quality of life now.
I get that, but doesn’t more focus on prevention and research promise long-term relief?
Prevention is key, but supporting those already affected is crucial. It’s a balance!
I love seeing such a strong emphasis on urban planning to help fight diabetes. Cities should do more.
Isn’t it sad that we have to engineer ways to get people to be active? Just go for a walk, people!
True, but some city designs naturally discourage physical activity. Better planning helps everyone.
With so many prominent figures attending, I hope it translates into real policy change and not just photo ops.
Policy change takes time, but raising awareness is always the first step.
Diabetes should have more national and international attention. So many suffer due to lack of knowledge.
Agreed. The educational aspect of the event stands out. Knowledge can prevent complications.
If only historical diets were more prevalent today. Less processed food, fewer problems!
It’s great that this event is happening, but what about those who can’t afford to participate?
Many awareness events offer free participation or scholarships for those in need. It’s not always costly.
Running and biking may seem small, but they can have monumental health benefits, curing more than just diabetes!
Absolutely! The ripple effect of exercise regularizes life patterns and improves overall well-being.
Exercise is great, but I think a holistic approach involving diet and technology is just as important.
It’s inspirational to see athletes like Mr. Sam Brand advocating for normal life with diabetes. We need more role models like him.
The mental health aspect is crucial! So many don’t realize the impact diabetes has on mental well-being.
The economic impact of diabetes on Thai healthcare could be staggering. Prevention will save futures and finances.
How wonderful that Thai organizations are working to make care available in rural areas. Everyone deserves access to healthcare!
True, yet the reality is many in rural areas remain uninformed about their options.
As informative as the event sounds, the question remains: Will big pharma let a cure be found?
I disagree with just focusing on technology. Simple lifestyle changes can have a profound effect on health.
Tech can aid in managing diabetes and tracking health changes efficiently. It complements lifestyle changes.
Doesn’t anyone else think these statistics are exaggerated to scare us into buying more medication?
Seeing such interdisciplinary collaboration is refreshing. It’s high time different sectors unite against common health threats.
Nutritional education is as crucial as medical treatment. Schools should integrate more dietary guidance in their curriculum.