MSDH Recognizes World Diabetes Day: Know Your Numbers

Jackson, Miss. — In recognition of World Diabetes Day on Thursday, November 14, the Mississippi State Department of Health is urging you to Know Your Numbers.

Knowing your numbers – cholesterol, blood pressure, blood sugar and body mass index – is an important proactive step you should take to reduce your chances of developing diabetes and other major chronic illnesses that disproportionately affect Mississippians.

Mississippi was second in the nation for diabetes prevalence in 2023. An estimated 1 in 6 of our residents are living with the disease, for which roughly 21,000 Mississippians are diagnosed annually. Diabetes affects the way the body uses food by causing sugar levels in the blood to be too high. Over time, high blood sugar damages nerves and blood vessels, leading to complications including heart disease, stroke, blindness, kidney disease, nerve problems and amputations.

The MSDH Diabetes Prevention and Control Program invites you to learn more about prevention and treatment options during our annual Giving Diabetes the Blues event:

• Reception: November 21, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Jackson Medical Mall, featuring Grammy-winner Bobby Rush. Pre-register at www.eventbrite.com/e/giving-diabetes-the-blues-tickets-1044589905527
• Conference: November 22, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Two Museums. Pre-register at www.eventbrite.com/e/giving-diabetes-the-blues-conference-tickets-1059919741479

Safeguard your health by getting screened at your local health department at no cost. Screening can detect higher than normal blood sugar (pre-diabetes) before it develops into diabetes. If you have pre-diabetes, reduce your risks by losing weight, becoming more active and eating a healthier diet.

World Diabetes Day raises awareness of the condition as a global public health issue, emphasizing the collective and individual actions needed for its prevention, diagnosis and management. Internationally, nearly half of all diabetes is undiagnosed, and 537 million people are living with the disease. This year’s theme, “Breaking Barriers, Bridging Gaps,” reinforces the commitment to ensuring that those with diabetes have access to equitable, comprehensive, affordable and quality treatment and care.