World Diabetes Day will be observed across Bangladesh and the world on Saturday with a focus on raising awareness about the disease.
This year's theme is ‘Diabetes e druto prodokkhep’ (Fast action against Diabetes).
The day is observed annually in around 170 countries, including Bangladesh.
The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) declared November 14 as World Diabetes Day in 1991, and the day has been observed worldwide since 2007.
At the request of the Bangladesh Diabetic Samity, the Bangladesh government proposed to the United Nations that November 14 be observed as World Diabetes Day. The proposal was unanimously adopted by the UN on December 20, 2006.
Marking the day, President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman issued separate messages.
In his message, the President said diabetes is a chronic disease that requires lifelong management.
Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to serious complications, including heart attacks and other cardiovascular diseases, strokes, kidney complications, blindness, nerve and blood vessel damage, infections and even amputation, he said.
However, he noted that people with diabetes can lead healthy, normal and productive lives through proper control of the disease.
He stressed the need to understand diabetes-related risks and take preventive measures without delay.
The President also said urbanisation has brought significant changes to people's lifestyles and dietary habits, while a lack of physical activity has contributed to the rising prevalence of diabetes.
He called on everyone to raise awareness about the disease and undergo regular blood tests to protect themselves from its harmful effects.
"Let us work together to raise awareness about diabetes in our homes, workplaces and society and build a healthy and beautiful Bangladesh," he said.
In a separate message, the Prime Minister described diabetes as one of the major public health challenges worldwide, noting that the number of people affected by the disease in Bangladesh is also increasing.
Uncontrolled diabetes can damage vital organs, including the heart, kidneys and eyes, and its complications can even be life-threatening, he said.
However, he noted that the disease can be controlled through timely diagnosis, proper treatment, healthy eating habits, regular physical activity and a conscious lifestyle.
A healthy and productive population is one of the key foundations of national development and prosperity, Tarique said, adding that good health improves not only individual quality of life but also the overall progress of families, society and the state.
He expressed confidence that greater awareness and preventive measures could significantly reduce the risks and complications of diabetes.
The Prime Minister also praised the Bangladesh Diabetic Samity for its longstanding contributions to diabetes prevention, expanding treatment services, research and public awareness.
He expressed hope that the organisation would further expand its services to bring diabetes prevention and treatment facilities closer to people across the country.
The government will continue providing necessary support for diabetes prevention and control, he added.