Diabetes is a developmental disease, characterized by high blood glucose levels, caused
by an improper functioning of the pancreas. The pancreas produces insulin which allows
our body's cells to absorb glucose ( a form of sugar) to be used when energy is needed. If
the pancreas becomes unable to produce insulin, or does not produce it effectively, it leads
to high levels of glucose in the blood, which causes health problems.
The major risk factors for diabetes include:
Being over 35, and the risk increases dramatically with age
Being overweight
Having a family history of diabetes
Having a diet high in saturated fats and refined sugar
Frequent use of alcohol
Over the last two decades there has been a significant increase in the number of
people, particularly with Type 2 diabetes, and it is now a major cause of morbidity and
early mortality.
In most cases Diabetes is a preventable disease, as the major, modifiable risk
factors involve simple lifestyle choices such as diet and amount of physical activity.
Despite this, diabetes is the 7th highest cause of death among Australians and its incidence
is on the rise in Australia and world-wide. Thus it has become a National Health Priority
Area, and through an holistic approach to health, prevention, detection and proper
management can be achieved.
My Public Diabetes Awareness Campaign (P.D.A.C.) focuses on the average
Australian, empowering them through awareness of the disease, it's risk factors, and
differentiating symptoms. Through knowledge and education, the individual has the power
to make informed choices relating to their health. This would follow closely the principles
of the New Public Health Approach, that prevention is better than cure. While the
campaign targets the average individual, the location and placement of the billboard/poster
and pamphlet would specifically focus on those individuals most at risk.