Over 1.3 million Australians are currently living with Diabetes and Lions volunteers across the country are on a mission to do what they can to reduce the prevalence of diabetes and improve the quality of life for those diagnosed.
In the leadup to World Diabetes Day on 14th November Lions Clubs across Australia will be hosting Lions Lap the Map walks and events in their local communities.
The community walks aim to raise awareness of diabetes and rally communities, healthcare professionals, and individuals alike to work towards a healthier and more vibrant future for all Australians.
With the help of communities across Australia, Lions Australia aims to have a combined distance travelled that will exceed Australia’s circumference (25,760 km) by World Diabetes Day on 14th November.
Lions National Diabetes Coordinator Pat Mills says Diabetes is a key focus for Lions and the organisation is focused on doing what it can to help reduce the impact of the disease in the community.
“Across Australia, 1.3 million people have been diagnosed with Diabetes and 283 people are diagnosed every day,” said Pat Mills.
“The disease can lead to serious health issues affecting the heart and blood vessels, eyes, kidneys, nerves and teeth. In most high-income countries, Diabetes is a leading cause of cardiovascular disease, blindness, kidney failure, and lower limb amputation. It’s expected to affect 629 million adults by 2045,” says Pat.
Mills highlighted that early diagnosis, optimal treatment and effective ongoing support and management reduce the risk of diabetes-related complications and in recent years Lions Clubs across Australia have been focused on raising awareness and funds to support more vital research into the diagnoses and treatment.
“Our Lions Lap the Map family-friendly walks and campaigns in the community encourage people to get outside and have a walk to promote healthy lifestyle and raise awareness of the Diabetes epidemic in Australia.”
“From events in shopping centres and gyms to walks in parks with healthy food, diabetes screenings for attendees and informative health professionals there’s a range of different types of events held as part of the Lap the Map campaign. We encourage people to keep an eye out and if you’re local Lions Club is having an event consider going along. They are usually very informative and a great day out for the entire family,” adds Pat Mills.
Lions volunteers pay annual membership fees to cover admin costs which means 100% of funds donated to your local Lions Club go directly towards the cause.