Santa Fe Standard

World Diabetes Day, observed on November 14, was established in 1991 by the World Health Organization and the International Diabetes Federation. The day aims to raise awareness about diabetes as a public health threat and highlight preventive and management actions.

In New Mexico, 12.5% of residents were diagnosed with diabetes in 2023. Of these individuals, nearly a quarter are aged 65 or older. The Hispanic/Latino community accounts for almost 15% of all cases, while those aged between 18 and 64 make up 8.46%.

Diabetes can lead to excess sugar in the blood, potentially causing serious health issues. Lindsey Goodhue, director of the Diabetes and Heart Health Section at the New Mexico Department of Health, stated that their Diabetes Prevention and Control Program is "working to increase awareness of diabetes, pre-diabetes and the factors that put people at risk." Goodhue emphasized that individuals with a family history of diabetes, who are overweight or physically inactive for most days of the week, aged over 45 years old, or have chronic conditions like high blood pressure are at higher risk. She advised these individuals to consult medical providers for screening to delay or manage diabetes.

Nationally, more than 38 million people have been diagnosed with diabetes. November is recognized as National Diabetes Month.

For further information regarding this topic, contact Robert Nott at (Office).