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Messages of support and growing awareness of the blue circle

30 May 2006 10:39

The importance of this year’s theme for World Diabetes Day ‘Diabetes in the disadvantaged and the vulnerable’ was highlighted, particularly in migrant populations. A recent survey undertaken in Azerbaijan drew attention to the high levels of diabetes complications among migrants and the lack of health infrastructure to offer comprehensive care. The elderly and children were also highlighted. These groups require special attention in these countries as they often slip through the welfare net.

The meeting included much discussion of the campaign for a UN Resolution on diabetes. All the diabetes organizations of Eastern Europe were keen to give messages of support and offer help to the campaign.

President of the Georgian Diabetes Association, Ramaz Kurashvili, who hosted the meeting in the country’s capital Tbilisi, presented pins to various dignitaries, including the Vice-Minister for Health.

President of the Georgian Diabetes Association, Ramaz Kurashvili
President of the Georgian Diabetes Association, Ramaz Kurashvili
As part of the programme IDF-Europe President Wim Wientjens formally presented the blue circle campaign logo to the First Lady of Georgia, Sandra Roelofs. The First Lady spoke of her personal attachment to diabetes through a close friend who has become blind as a consequence of diabetes.

 

IDF-Europe president presents pin to First Lady of Georgia
IDF-Europe president presents pin to First Lady of Georgia

IDF-Europe has just held a meeting of diabetes representative organizations in Eastern European countries in order to compare responses to the diabetes epidemic, explore specific needs country-by-country and look for potential solutions that can be coordinated at regional level. Concerns about low diabetes awareness and, in some places, low or no access to diabetes supplies were expressed.

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