By: Surjit Singh Flora
An estimated 1.7 million Canadians are unknowingly living with diabetes in 2024. The problem stems from the fact that the disease affects a significant number of individuals without clear warning signs or symptoms.
Canada is addressing the concerning prevalence of diabetes, particularly within the South Asian community, through the implementation of a national framework. The driving force behind the initiative is Sonia Sidhu, the Member of Parliament for Brampton South.
On Friday, Nov 8th, Sidhu proudly hosted the 4th Annual World Diabetes Day Flag-Raising at Brampton City Hall. This celebration of Diabetes Awareness Month aims to increase public understanding of and support for the millions of Canadians who suffer from diabetes. In her opening remarks, Sidhu emphasized the importance of early detection and screening, thanking Dynacare for providing free diabetes testing at the event.
We gather here not just to raise a flag but to raise awareness and support for the many individuals and families affected by diabetes in our community and across Canada,” she stated.
The ceremony was attended by representatives from various levels of government, including Mayor Patrick Brown, Councillor Navjit Kaur Brar, Colleague MP Maninder Sidhu, MP Ruby Sahota, and MP Shafqat Ali, many community leaders as well as delegates from national organizations such as Diabetes Canada, JDRF, BreakthoroughT1D, Williams Osler Health, and Dynacare. Community leaders and patients also joined to share their experiences and insights. MP Sonia Sidhu highlighted the significant strides made in diabetes care and prevention, referencing her private member’s bill, C-237, which established a National Framework for Diabetes in Canada. “Our government’s recent Pharmacare legislation is a giant step forward, ensuring that over three and a half million Canadians living with diabetes have access to the medications and resources they need,” she noted.
A highlight of the event was the mobile testing clinic provided by Dynacare, which offered attendees the opportunity to receive free diabetes testing. This initiative is part of a broader effort to promote screening and early detection, crucial components of the National Framework for Diabetes. The mobile clinic featured trained healthcare professionals who conducted tests and provided valuable information on diabetes management and prevention.
According to Diabetes Canada, approximately 30 percent of Canadians suffer from diabetes, prediabetes, or have not received a type 2 diabetes diagnosis. The current population stands at nearly 12 million individuals, with projections indicating a 25 percent increase over the next decade.
Individuals from South Asian, African, Arab, Asian, Caribbean, Hispanic, or Indigenous backgrounds demonstrate a nearly twofold higher probability of developing type 2 diabetes. Individuals over the age of 40, those with lower income or education levels, those who demonstrate physical inactivity, and those classified as overweight or obese, as well as those with elevated blood pressure and cholesterol levels, may find themselves at a heightened risk.
Diabetes alone can be difficult, but it can also cause serious complications. Hospitalization for heart attacks, kidney failure, strokes, and amputations are more common in people with diabetes.
The Peel region in Ontario is home to a vibrant South Asian community along with other ethnic groups, and it faces significant challenges related to diabetes.
South Asians have often faced criticism for favoring oily foods rich in refined carbs and sugars, like sweets and samosas. Experts suggest this alone doesn’t fully account for the high heart disease rates, influenced by diabetes, in South Asians.
As Canada continues to lead in diabetes research and innovation, Sidhu expressed optimism for the future. “Canada is the birthplace of insulin, and with ongoing advancements, I believe we are on the path to finding a cure for Type 1 diabetes,” she added. The event concluded with a call to action for all Canadians to support ongoing efforts in diabetes research and advocacy. “Let’s continue to support our doctors, researchers, and advocates. Together, we can combat diabetes,” Sidhu urged.
