In November, World Diabetes Day is traditionally marked worldwide. To draw public attention to the risk factors and prevention of type 2 diabetes – particularly emphasizing the importance of excess weight, obesity, and everyday habits – this year “Centrālā laboratorija”, “Veselības centru apvienība”, “Mēness aptieka” un “Olpha”, together with their partners, organized the campaign “How Much Is Too Much?”
As part of the campaign, in November at several Health Stops, people could receive free diagnostic measurements – measure their blood pressure, determine blood glucose and cholesterol levels, and calculate their body mass index, as well as consult with specialists. This year, the “Health Stops” in Riga, Bauska, Daugavpils, and Saldus were visited by several hundred residents.
According to specialists, people are increasingly paying attention to diabetes prevention; however, every year during the free measurement days, cases are still discovered in which individuals with dangerously elevated glucose and cholesterol levels have not previously consulted a doctor or undergone examinations.
According to “Mēness aptieka” pharmacist Ērika Pētersone, growing risk factors could mean that by 2045 diabetes will affect every tenth European, as predicted by the World Health Organization. She stresses the importance of not overlooking early signs: “Regular monitoring of your health markers – blood sugar and cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and body mass index – helps maintain a healthy weight and detect changes before they become serious.”
The campaign also spotlighted the dangers linked to excess weight. Survey data show that half of Latvia’s population has actively tried to reduce weight this year, while one in three people has encountered intolerance or prejudice due to being overweight.
“Excess weight and obesity remain major health challenges in Latvia and worldwide. Objective data confirm the trend: more than half of people aged 15 to 74 in Latvia are overweight or obese. Excess weight is closely linked to a wide range of health problems and significantly increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular and oncological diseases, respiratory illnesses, and other conditions. It also substantially reduces the number of healthy years a person can expect to live,” says Maksims Mukāns, surgeon at the International Bariatric Centre of Excellence Center at the “AIWA Clinic” of Veselības centru apvienība.
The “How Much Is Too Much?” campaign, held throughout November at multiple locations across Latvia, was aimed to raise awareness of diabetes risk factors and prevention – placing special emphasis on the impact of excess weight, obesity, and everyday lifestyle habits.
