Diabetes is one of the most common chronic diseases in children and adolescents. Given the high numbers of Bermudians living with diabetes, it is important for families to recognize the warning signs and symptoms of the disease and be able to identify when children may be at risk of diabetes and when they should be screened or visit their doctor. This video by photographer Oliver Tucker documents the harsh realities of living with diabetes through one family’s story.
As a community, early intervention and strategies to raise awareness of the connection between healthy lifestyle choices, exercise and the prevention of type 2 diabetes—among not just adults but also children—must continue in order to prevent the epidemic from increasing. Type 1 diabetes is not preventable with lifestyle intervention, but in both cases, recognizing symptoms and early detection is important to prevent complications later on.
For further information or diabetes concerns, please contact Sara McKittrick, diabetes educator at the Bermuda Diabetes Association. The contact number is 297-8427, or e-mail bdaed@northrock.bm.
