 Kingston students are trying to halt the march of killer disease diabetes by raising awareness about it on World Diabetes Day.
Diabetes is a chronic disease that can affect anyone from childhood and is rising at an alarming rate, but few students questioned at Kingston could name any of its symptoms.
Roohil Yusuf, coordinator of World Diabetes Day for the International Pharmaceutical Student’s Federation and a third year Kingston student, said: “A lot of students may experience symptoms but put it down to student life. It is important that young people are aware of what these could imply and get it checked out as early as possible.”
Symptoms of untreated diabetes include a dry mouth, increased thirst, tiredness, blurred vision, slow healing wounds and thrush. Lilian Sagini, a second year Business Studies student said: “There are two types aren’t there? I know one’s a really bad one – A or B? A university study session would help.”
IPSF campaigners will be wearing blue to raise awareness of the disease to ensure people, particularly 16-25 year olds, recognise the signs and symptoms to get treated.
A Science department staff member said: “I saw an announcement to wear blue on ‘StudySpace’. I know of diabetes but nothing about symptoms. The university should provide more health checks.”
Diabetes is a condition that can go undetected until complications develop. These can include blindness, cardiovascular diseases, stroke, heart attack, and ultimately death.
Yusuf said: “I don’t think the university are doing all that much…having more information on diabetes in the library could be helpful.”
Yusuf and her team will be based in the reception area of Penryhn Road and on Clarence Street in Kingston town centre on Friday 14th November. They will be answering questions and handing out leaflets and stickers.
Diabetes UK awareness campaigns and fundraising events: Public Health Campaigns World Diabetes Day
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