"\u201cDiabetes is an urgent problem in Indonesia and there is still much to be done to provide the support needed for people with diabetes,\u201d said Dr. Roy Panusuan Sibarani, Chief Officer of the Diabetes Initiative Indonesia in Jakarta, April 25, 2024. Diabetes is not only a threat in Indonesia. Worldwide, the number of diabetes patients continues to increase. Approximately 1 in 10 adults suffer from diabetes and it is estimated that the number reaches 537 million people. Diabetes also causes 6.7 million deaths each year."

Currently, there are three types of diabetes that are commonly suffered by humans, namely type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes, and gestational diabetes. Type 1 diabetes occurs due to an autoimmune condition that causes the pancreas to be unable to produce insulin. This type of diabetes is not only suffered by adults. Most often, it is suffered by children, teenagers, and young adults. Type 2 diabetes is commonly suffered by middle-aged to elderly individuals, around the age of 45 and above.

Diabetes is caused by the pancreas producing insufficient insulin or the body's cells not optimally using insulin to regulate blood sugar. This type of diabetes is also usually influenced by genetic factors. Meanwhile, gestational diabetes occurs in pregnant women. When pregnant, blood sugar levels will be high and return to normal after giving birth. However, Sahabat Dream still needs to be cautious because gestational diabetes can develop into type 2 diabetes.

The main focus of this education program is to spread awareness and maintain the blood sugar levels of diabetes patients to remain stable. "We are delighted to partner with Roche Diabetes Care, which shares the same goal of fostering a better understanding of proactive diabetes management in Indonesia. Through this partnership, we aim to equip diabetes patients and their caregivers with knowledge," said Dr. Roy Panusuan Sibarani, Chief Officer of the Diabetes Initiative Indonesia during the socialization event of this program with the media and influencers in Jakarta, April 25, 2024.

Meanwhile, Bryan Koh, Cluster Head of Asia Emerging Markets at Roche Diabetes Care, emphasized the importance of structured blood sugar monitoring. "Indonesia is currently grappling with the increasing prevalence of diabetes, coupled with the diversity of healthcare accessibility and lifestyle disparities. Structured blood sugar monitoring is crucial in diabetes management," he said. Report by Salma Rihhadatul Aisy.