In observance of the global World Diabetes Day held annually on the 14th of November and the 2025 theme “Diabetes and the workplace,” the Endocrine Unit of the University of Benin Teaching Hospital organised a diabetes outreach at the Consultant’s Outpatient Department of the hospital.
The initiative was conceived to promote heightened awareness, facilitate early detection, and strengthen the management of diabetes among individuals within and beyond the workplace setting.
The programme provided an opportunity for members of staff, patients, and other individuals present at the hospital to access medical services at no cost.
The activities carried out during the outreach included medical consultations, clinical assessments, and screening for blood glucose levels, cholesterol, and blood pressure.
Participants also received professional counselling and health education centred on work–health balance, dietary practices, physical activity, and long-term self-management of diabetes.
Sensitization sessions were conducted intermittently to reinforce the importance of timely diagnosis and consistent medical follow-up while highlighting the implications of poorly managed diabetes on personal well-being, workplace productivity, and quality of life.
Registered diabetic patients were further supported with the provision of free medications to enhance treatment adherence and continuity of care.
The turnout was encouraging, and the feedback from beneficiaries reflected appreciation for the opportunity to prioritise their health despite busy schedules and competing demands.
Many individuals who had never undergone screening previously gained an understanding of their health status for the first time, while patients already diagnosed benefitted from medication support and renewed guidance on long-term disease control.
The successful execution of this programme demonstrates the unwavering commitment of the Endocrine Unit and the University of Benin Teaching Hospital to strengthening diabetes awareness and empowering individuals, not only at home but also in the workplace, to take responsibility for their health.
The Unit acknowledges the support of the management of UBTH, as well as every partner and volunteer whose contribution ensured the successful execution of this intervention.
World Diabetes Day 2025, advancing awareness, encouraging early detection, and promoting healthier workplaces and communities.
Together, we can turn awareness into action.
