KNYSNA NEWS - In recognition of National Diabetes Awareness Month, Vermont Old Age Home partnered with Knysna Central Pharmacy, essential service workers from Hornlee Clinic, and members of the Hornlee community for an awareness march on Friday 14 November.
Participants moved from the Hornlee Civic Centre to Vermont Old Age Home, where free diabetes screenings were conducted as part of the initiative to promote early detection and education.
The event drew strong support from residents, healthcare workers and local organisations. On arrival at the old age home, attendees were offered glucose testing, informational pamphlets and guidance on managing the condition.
Lucas Hleza of Knysna Central Pharmacy emphasised the crucial importance of knowing one's status.
"Education and early detection remain our strongest tools. Many people are living with diabetes without realising it, and by the time they are diagnosed, complications have already set in," he said.
Hleza also expressed heartfelt gratitude to all who contributed to the success of the event.
He extended special thanks to Adcock Ingram, Central Pharmacy staff, the police, the Knysna Fire Department, Law Enforcement, the broader Hornlee community, and the senior citizens who participated enthusiastically.
Diabetes remains one of South Africa's most serious health challenges, affecting an estimated 4.3 million adults - about one in nine people - and ranking as the second leading cause of death after tuberculosis.
With nearly half of those affected unaware of their condition, late diagnosis and organ damage are common. As cases are projected to rise to 8.75 million by 2040, community-driven initiatives like Friday's march play a vital role in strengthening awareness and prevention.
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