Health and Community Services
Seniors, Wellness and Social Development
November 14, 2014

Improving Health and Wellness for Families and Communities

World Diabetes Day Proclaimed in Newfoundland and Labrador

November 14 is being recognized as World Diabetes Day in Newfoundland and Labrador. The Honourable Steve Kent, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health and Community Services, joined with the Canadian Diabetes Association for a proclamation signing to help raise awareness around the impact of diabetes. This year’s theme is Healthy Living and Diabetes.

“The health of our province is dependent on the health of our people. We have to ensure we are making sound investments that will have positive long-term effects on families and communities. Our government places significant emphasis on chronic disease management and treatments, as well as providing opportunities for individuals to improve their own health outcomes through increased physical fitness and healthy eating initiatives. I look forward to continuing our partnership with the Canadian Diabetes Association as we all work together to address diabetes and strive to reduce the prevalence of it in our province.”
- The Honourable Steve Kent, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health and Community Services

The Provincial Government provides a number of treatment and management options for people living with diabetes including medication coverage under the Newfoundland and Labrador Prescription Drug Program; the Insulin Pump Therapy Program for eligible residents up to age 25 years; diabetic clinics provided by Regional Health Authorities and supplemented by telehealth conferencing in rural areas; and increased access to dialysis services throughout the province.

“The Provincial Government has invested in many wellness initiatives, including program funding to help individuals prevent disease and maintain good health. Nearly all type 2 diabetes can be prevented by eating a healthy diet, being physically active and staying smoke free. With the creation of the new Department of Seniors, Wellness and Social Development, we now have more opportunities to focus on wellness.”
- The Honourable Clyde Jackman, Minister of Seniors, Wellness and Social Development

For more information on healthy living and the province’s wellness plan, Achieving Health and Wellness: Provincial Wellness Plan for Newfoundland and Labrador visit: //www.health.gov.nl.ca/health/wellnesshealthyliving/index.html.

QUICK FACTS

• November 14 has been proclaimed World Diabetes Day in Newfoundland and Labrador.
• The Provincial Government provides a number of treatments and management options for people living with diabetes including medication coverage, the insulin pump program and diabetic clinics.
• Nearly all type 2 diabetes can be prevented by eating a healthy diet, being physically active and staying smoke free.
• The newly-established department of Seniors, Wellness and Social Development was created, in part, to bring more focus to government-wide efforts to promote healthy living and wellness initiatives that are inclusive to citizens of all ages.

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2014 11 14                                        10:25 a.m.