World Diabetes Day - Why It Matters & How It Affects Your Feet
World Diabetes Day is held every year on 14th November, chosen to mark the birthday of Dr Frederick Banting, one of the scientists who discovered insulin in 1921. His work transformed the treatment of diabetes and continues to save lives today.
In the UK, around 4.5 million people are diagnosed with diabetes, with another one million estimated to be undiagnosed. Type 2 diabetes accounts for roughly 90% of these cases, but all types share one thing in common: raised blood glucose levels that can lead to long-term complications if not well managed.
Understanding Diabetes & Its Effects
There are several types of diabetes:
- Type 1 - autoimmune, no insulin production
- Type 2 - insufficient or ineffective insulin
- Gestational diabetes - temporarily occurs during pregnancy
When blood glucose levels stay high over time, this can affect blood vessels, nerves, the eyes, kidneys, heart, and the feet.
Why Diabetes Can Affect the Feet
Persistently high blood glucose can damage the small blood vessels that supply the feet, reducing circulation and slowing healing. It can also lead to neuropathy, causing reduced or altered sensation. This means a person may injure their foot without noticing.
Dry skin is also common, and although it can seem like a small issue, cracked heels or fissures increase the risk of infection, especially when healing is slower.
That’s why daily foot checks and simple preventative care are so important.
Where Dermatonics Supports Foot Health
For people living with diabetes, the right footcare routine can make a huge difference. Many healthcare professionals recommend moisturising daily with a product that helps soften hard, dry skin and improve hydration.
Dermatonics Once Heel Balm is one such option:
- Designed to soften very dry, hard skin
- Works quickly - many people see improvement from the first day
- Suitable for people with diabetes
- Helps maintain healthier skin and reduces the risk of cracks
A small step in your daily routine that can support better foot health - especially at times when feet may be more vulnerable.
2025 Theme: Diabetes in the Workplace
This year’s World Diabetes Day theme focuses on how people living with diabetes often face stigma, misunderstanding and challenges in managing their health at work.
Raising awareness, at home, in clinics, and in workplaces helps create healthier environments for everyone.
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