A volunteer of the BVI Diabetes Association lights the World Diabetes Day wheel during a previous ceremony marking the observance. Photo: FREEMAN ROGERS

About 51 percent of the deaths recorded in the Virgin Islands in 2012 were attributable to chronic non-communicable diseases, according to a survey conducted by the Ministry of Health and Social Development.

At least three of them were related to diabetes.

A volunteer of the BVI Diabetes Association lights the World Diabetes Day wheel during a previous ceremony marking the observance. Photo: FREEMAN ROGERS
Those numbers were among the statistics that Elton Georges, president of the BVI Diabetes Association, discussed on Monday during a press conference at the Jana Downing Diabetes Resource Centre in Road Town.

Throughout November, the organisation will host activities highlighting the importance of a healthy lifestyle in the prevention of diabetes, Mr. Georges explained.

A walk starting at the Festival Village Grounds is scheduled for Nov. 14 as part of activities for Diabetes Awareness Month. Fitness trainer Lisa Adamson will lead a Zumba session after the walk, organisers said.

The BVI Diabetes Association is also asking for other community support. You can help by joining the organisation; by launching a new branch; by donating financial support individually or through a business; or by otherwise assisting with the BVIDA’s work.

For more information call 494-4125 or e-mail vidiabetes@gmail.com.

See the Nov. 5, 2015 edition for full coverage.

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