Free blood sugar tests attract 500

Over 500 people yesterday took advantage of free blood sugar tests in the first of three days of activities organised by the Maltese Diabetes Association to mark World Diabetes Day yesterday.

Association public relations' official Chris Delicata said a few of those who undertook the test were diagnosed positive for the first time.

Speaking at a news conference, association president Anna Zammit McKeon said diabetes cases in Malta were increasing. Around 30,000 or 10 per cent of the population suffer from the condition.

Ms Zammit McKeon said that according to a study carried out by the International Diabetes Federation, the number of diabetes sufferers was expected to double by 2025.

The sugar monitoring service is being carried out at the Health Promotion Unit in Merchants' Street, Valletta, the Plaza Complex in Sliema and Bay Street in St Julian's today and tomorrow between 9.30 a.m. and 1.30 p.m.

The initiative is being carried out with the support of three pharmaceutical companies - Alf. Gera & Sons Ltd, Vivian Commercial Ltd and ATG Ltd.

Its aim is to promote awareness, early diagnosis and treatment of diabetes and associated complications.

The association said that like many other chronic medical conditions, diabetes required medical care by a professional team of doctors.

However, it was essential that diabetics managed their conditions via careful attention to diet, rigorous timing of self-medication, frequent testing of blood sugar, an exercise regime and regular attendance at a diabetes clinic.

The Maltese Diabetes Association, with the collaboration of ATG Ltd, also plans to introduce a free identity card for members, which includes the necessary details such as the type of diabetes the card holder suffers from and the treatment the person is on.

The identity card should ensure that members have an effective means of identification which would prove vital in the event of an accident or emergency.

There are two types of diabetes: Type 1 that is normally associated with children, who require daily shots of insulin; and Type 2, more commonly found in middle-aged and/or elderly people. With Type 2 Diabetes, a controlled diet, tablets or insulin are required to control the condition.

Further details on the activities of the association may be obtained from the Maltese Diabetes Association, 116, Melita Street, Valletta, or on tel. 21221518.