The symposium organized by the Near East University in collaboration with the DESAM Research Institute and the Turkish Cypriot Diabetes Association tackled the pressing issue of diabetes in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). Diabetes, a global health concern exacerbated by factors such as obesity and sedentary lifestyles, has become a significant problem in the TRNC, as evidenced by a health screening where 34.4% of participants were found to have diabetes.

Global statistics from the World Health Organization underline the magnitude of the diabetes challenge, with 422 million adults affected worldwide and 1.6 million annual deaths attributed to diabetes-related complications. The symposium emphasized the necessity of collaborative efforts among medical professionals, academics, and the public to effectively address this escalating health crisis.

Key speakers included Assoc. Prof. Dr. Cenk Serhan Özverel, the Director of the DESAM Research Institute, and Prof. Dr. Adile Öniz Özgören, the Dean of Near East University Faculty of Health Sciences. They highlighted the institute’s commitment to public health and stressed the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration for successful diabetes prevention and treatment.

Taner Morris, the President of the Turkish Cypriot Diabetes Association, drew attention to the severity of diabetes in the Mediterranean islands, with rates surpassing those in Turkey and the global average. Morris advocated for lifestyle changes, particularly in nutrition and physical activity, as crucial measures to prevent diabetes.

Dietitian Gizem Oymacı, a member of the Turkish Cypriot Diabetes Association, shared personal experiences of living with diabetes since childhood. She emphasized the pivotal role of family support, conscious nutrition, and physical activity in managing diabetes, highlighting the significance of awareness and healthy eating habits.

In summary, the symposium provided a platform to address the escalating challenge of diabetes in the TRNC, fostering collaboration and raising awareness about preventive measures and lifestyle changes crucial for tackling this widespread health issue. This approach aligns with principles of sustainability, emphasizing the interconnectedness of environmental, social, and economic factors for the well-being of present and future generations.

For more information:
https://neu.edu.tr/the-rate-of-diabetes-in-the-mediterranean-islands-is-1-5-times-higher-than-in-turkey-and-2-times-higher-than-the-world-average/?lang=en