World Diabetes Day: Encouraging Healthier Choices across Guyana.
Written by EDYOU FM Staff on November 14, 2025
As Guyanese, many of us rely on quick, convenient meals such as sugary snacks, soft drinks, fast food, and of course, our beloved rice. But while these choices may feel harmless, they quietly increase the risk of chronic illnesses. In many communities across the country, the phrase “My sugar high again” has become almost casual, yet behind those words lies a growing health crisis affecting families every single day. That concern is diabetes, and today as the world marks World diabetes day, observed globally on November 14, the focus turns on understanding the illness and to raise awareness of the escalating diabetes epidemic as well as highlighting the importance of prevention, early diagnosis, and proper treatment. The date also honors Sir Frederick Banting, whose discovery of insulin in 1921 revolutionized diabetes care and saved countless lives.
This year’s theme, “Diabetes Across Life Stages,” emphasizes the need for consistent care, supportive environments, and strong health policies for individuals of all ages living with the condition. To support this global message, nutritionist Ms. Mya Dornick of the Ministry of Health’s Food Policy Division, shared key insights to help deepen public understanding.
Describing herself as vibrant, bold, and passionate about promoting healthier living, Ms. Dornick noted that diabetes is becoming increasingly common in Guyana. Over 6,000 Guyanese, including children, are currently living with the disease. She described this rise as “quite alarming” and stressed the need for timely interventions to safeguard the nation’s future. For her, World Diabetes Day serves as a reminder that many individuals may already be diabetic without realizing it, making public education critical.
Ms. Mya Dornick of the Ministry of Health’s Food Policy Division with Hillon LaCruz
She explained that diabetes is a chronic illness that occurs when the body does not produce enough insulin or is unable to use it effectively. When this happens, sugar remains in the bloodstream instead of being converted into energy. Early signs may include frequent urination, excessive thirst or hunger, blurry vision, numbness in the feet, and unexplained weight loss.
In addressing prevention, Ms. Dornick highlighted that lifestyle and dietary habits play a major role especially in a culture where sweet beverages, high-carb meals, and processed foods are common. She encouraged Guyanese to make manageable, consistent changes such as reducing sugar intake, drinking more water, limiting oily and salty foods, exercising for at least 30 minutes daily, managing stress, getting regular checkups, and following prescribed treatments.
She also dispelled common misconceptions like the idea that diabetes is caused only by sugar or that people living with the condition must completely eliminate all sweets. In reality, diabetes develops from a combination of factors including family history, diet, physical activity levels, and overall health. Many families may have had undiagnosed cases in previous generations without knowing it.
She also shared that one important initiative underscoring the Ministry of Health’s push for healthier living is its new recipe book, “Colourful Cooking for Healthy Living.” Officially launched by Minister of Health Dr. Frank Anthony at the Umanayana, the book features nutritious, affordable recipes using local ingredients, complete with calorie counts to support easier meal planning for each household. The digital recipe book is available for download through the Ministry’s QR code. This initiative highlights that every person living with diabetes should have access to integrated care, supportive environments and policies that promote health, dignity and self-management.
As Guyana joins the world in observing World Diabetes Day, the message remains clear: awareness saves lives. Through healthier habits, accessible information, and national support, individuals can better prevent and manage diabetes. With continued effort, Guyanese can move toward a future where fewer families are impacted by this chronic condition.
By H. LaCruz
