The Gibraltar Health Authority is today observing World Diabetes Day aspart of their ongoing efforts to promote awareness of the disease in the community.

The date will coincide with the delivery of the DESMOND (Diabetes Education and Self- Management for Ongoing and Newly Diagnosed) training programme for staff. 

DESMOND is a structured education program designed to help people with type 2 diabetes understand and manage their condition. It provides information about the disease, healthy eating, physical activity, medication, and the emotional aspects of living with diabetes. 

The program aims to empower participants to make informed lifestyle choices, improve blood sugar control, and reduce the risk of complications, supporting long-term self-management and better overall health. 

Acting GHA Director General Lysandra Debono said: “We aim to offer these courses once per month for newly diagnosed type 2’s and those already living with the condition. We are grateful to Diabetes Gibraltar for collaborating with us to offer some course experience to our new educators, and also grateful to our newly recruited Diabetic Specialist Nurse for leading the project.”

The Minister for Health and Care, Gemma Arias-Vasquez said: “I am genuinely pleased that we now have two Diabetes Specialist Nurses supporting this service. Their expertise will make a real difference for patients, particularly as we expand structured education like DESMOND and promote early intervention and self-management. Today’s World Diabetes Day activities highlight the importance of equipping people with the knowledge and support they need to live healthier, more confident lives.” 

The Minister for Health and Care, Gemma Arias-Vasquez said: “I am genuinely pleased that we now have two Diabetes Specialist Nurses supporting this service. Their expertise will make a real difference for patients, particularly as we expand structured education like DESMOND and promote early intervention and self-management. Today’s World Diabetes Day activities highlight the importance of equipping people with the knowledge and support they need to live healthier, more confident lives.”