– DSA Head Office News –
IDF President visits DSA main branch
Prof Peter E. H. Schwarz is current President of the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and is based at the University of Dresden in Germany.
He paid a visit to Diabetes South Africa National and Western Cape Offices in January. During his visit he asked about the challenges DSA experienced and congratulated us on 55 years of service to the people with diabetes in South Africa.
We informed him of the various projects and programmes we run and explained the ideas we have to reach more people with diabetes.
One of our biggest challenges is funding, which is a common problem for many non-profit Organisations, but especially Diabetes South Africa as it’s not well understood.
It was a great honour for us to meet Professor Schwarz and have him visit our new offices with his wife and young daughter whilst he was in Cape Town. He showed a lot of interest and gave us much encouragement to continue with our outreach to patients with diabetes in South Africa.
– DSA Western Cape News –
Macassar Support Group VisitÂ
Margot McCumisky and Gail Pasqualle visited the Macassar Diabetes Support Group in February.
They were warmly welcomed by the Support Group Leader, Michelle Turner, and all the other members.
Margot gave a talk about how DSA was established, and how the members could manage their blood glucose, showing them a picture of food portions.
Michelle Turner, the group facilitator, spoke about exercise, showing them that you don’t always have to go outside of the home to exercise.
The group also participated in laughter therapy.
Vitals were taken; those with high blood glucose levels and high blood pressure were taught how to bring these readings down, with moderate exercise and medication.
Margot and Gail also met with the principal of False Bay Primary School, where the group meets regularly. He was very welcoming, inviting the to have a Denim 4 Diabetes day. He also proposed to have an event where the community of Macassar could come and learn about diabetes.
Silver Stars Diabetes Wellness Group visitÂ
Margot McCumisky and Gail Pasqualle from DSA went to visit the Silver Stars Diabetes Wellness group in Blue Downs near Cape Town recently.
We were warmly welcomed by the group eaders, Alvin and Norma White, and all the many members who attended.
Margot spoke on what DSA does, footcare and how the members could manage their blood glucose levels. She also spoke about food portions and medication. A few of the members asked questions about symptoms and what to do when their blood glucose is too high or too low.
Gail gave out booklets, samples, and also introduced a product for open wounds that isn’t healing, or for nappy rash or eczema. We handed out several bottles to people for them to see if the product helps with healing.
It was a lovely meeting the group. Alvin and Norma White do a wonderful job of assisting people in the community with their health. DSA is always available to assist in whatever way we can and hope to visit again before too long.
– DSA Pretoria News –
First meeting of the year
The DSA Pretoria Wellness Support Group kick-started its first meeting of 2025 on 1 February with an insightful information session led by Sister Louise Pywell and her guest, Annette van Ginkel, a highly-experienced ICU and paediatric nurse.
It was back to basics as Sr Louise welcomed attendees and introduced the group’s objectives. While the group primarily focuses on Type 2 diabetes in older individuals, it’s open to all members, regardless of age or diabetes type. She provided key statistics on diabetes in South Africa, highlighting that 6% of the population is affected, and it remains the second leading cause of death after tuberculosis.
Diabetes overview
Type 2 diabetes accounts for 90% of global cases, often linked to poor diet, obesity, aging, and genetics.
Type 1 diabetes is less common (10% of cases) and has no known cause.
Gestational diabetes affects some pregnant women.
Diabetes Management Insights from Sister AnnetteÂ
Medication & medical check-ups
We were cautioned to avoid adjusting medications without consulting doctors. For optimal effectiveness, medication should be taken at regular time each day. Additionally, be informed about the potential side effects of prescribed medications. Attend regular check-ups at least twice a year.
Diet and nutrition
Consume smaller portions and uphold a balanced diet. Encouraged to eat fibre-rich foods, nuts, olive oil, and fermented items for optimal gut health. Restrict sugar, fried items, and alcohol, particularly beer. Drink enough water daily.
Lifestyle and holistic care
- Exercise helps lower blood glucose levels. Technology devices like glucose monitors linked to phones aids diabetes management.
- Foot care is critical; check for cuts and blisters, visit a podiatrist yearly, and avoid walking barefoot.
- Eye health matters; schedule annual eye exams and consider Optive Omega UD Eye Drops for dry eyes.
- Skin health; keep skin moisturised and treat rashes or dark spots immediately.
- Manage stress as it raises cortisol levels, impacting on blood glucose spikes.
- Get quality sleep and maintain social connections for better well-being.
Children and diabetes
There is a great need for young volunteers to assist in running diabetes awareness camps. Many children diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes initially experience abdominal pain. DSA Pretoria used to host these camps, and by the end of the camp, children would have learnt to inject themselves with confidence.
The session emphasised education, self-care, and a proactive approach to diabetes management. The DSA Pretoria Wellness Support Group looks forward to a year of support, awareness, and healthier living.
The next support group meeting will be on 1 March.
– DSA Durban News –
IDF President visits DSA Durban Branch
International Diabetes Federation President, Professor Peter Schwartz, visited Diabetes South Africa Durban Branch Manager, Sean Gunn, and Chairlady, Pillile Dlaminin, on 2 February 2025. They discussed DSA’s plans and what they would like to achieve for the next year and described to Prof Schwartz their activities in the KZN region.
– DSA Port Elizabeth News –
DSA Port Elizabeth branch had a variety of Diabetes Wellness Meetings in February to start the new year; four venues and four different guest speakers and topics.
S’Khona Diabetes Wellness Group
Malabar and Springdale Meetings
Two Diabetes Wellness Meetings that were held on Tuesday evening, 11 February 2025, one in Malabar and the other in Springdale.
Newton Park Meeting
On Wednesday evening, 12 February 2025, the Diabetes Wellness Meeting was held in Newton Park.
2024 Diabetes Awareness Events
Towards the end of last year, we had three diabetes awareness events.
