A survey done by the Ministry of Health shows that 15% of Malaysians above 30 years of age suffer from diabetes, and these diabetics may not know how best to take care of themselves – a situation that will in most cases lead to further health complications, including death. Studies, as well as the experience of Malaysia’s endo-chronologist networks have made it clear that there is an imperative need for community awareness programmes concerning diabetes.
The National Diabetes Institute (NADI) is an established non-profit organisation. Since its establishment in 2001, it has been active in creating awareness for better care and prevention of diabetes, its complications and co-morbidities. NADI is fully endorsed by the Ministry of Health and its patron is the former Malaysian Prime Minister, YABhg Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad. NADI has found that the prevalence of diabetes is currently as high as 8% for the Orang Asli community, as compared to its non-existence in the early 1990s. Through its Felda community awareness programmes that ran from 2002 to 2009, NADI further recorded high rates of diabetes in the community (up to 21%).
With RM1.35 million funding from YSD, NADI is implementing a 24-month programme involving road shows in selected rural and Orang Asli settlements in Peninsular Malaysia, which offer:
- Education: guidance on how to manage the disease and prevent complications, access to a mobile library providing books, CD/DVD and internet access, health talks, practical tips to help manage diabetes
- Screening: health screening for blood glucose and cholesterol, blood pressure and Body Mass Index (BMI) examinations
- Counseling: advice on maintaining healthy lifestyle by healthcare professionals, counseling by Diabetes Educators and dietitians on compliance with treatment, dietary management and physical activities to delay complications
- Exhibitions: Collaboration with the Ministry of Health and related expert organisations to set up booths to increase awareness and knowledge