Abbott’s Glucerna #StartsWithYou Campaign Inspires Malaysians with Diabetes to Take Charge of Their Health

WORDS LIM TECK CHOON

Ahead of Diabetes Awareness Month this November, Abbott has launched the Glucerna® #StartsWithYou campaign on 30 October 2024 to empower Malaysians living with diabetes to take control of their health.

This campaign invites individuals to share their diabetes management journeys and receive a Wellness Pack, offering tools to encourage and support lifestyle changes that make a difference.

The Glucerna® Lifestyle Change Program (GLCP), a centerpiece of the campaign, is designed to educate people with diabetes on how positive dietary choices and physical activity can improve glucose management and overall well-being. By showcasing personal success stories from past program participants, Abbott aims to inspire more people with diabetes to embrace lifestyle modifications that support healthier living.

A TIMELY CAMPAIGN IN THE LOOMING THREAT DIABETES 

According to Malaysia’s National Health and Morbidity Survey, approximately 3.6 million Malaysians (15.6% of adults) are living with diabetes, with many still undiagnosed.

”The prevalence of diabetes remains high in Malaysia, so it’s important to help individuals adopt healthy habits and strategies to manage their condition,” said Dr Nina Mazera Mohd Said, the nutrition medical director of Abbott Malaysia. ”The Glucerna® Lifestyle Change Program has supported many people with diabetes manage their glucose levels through positive lifestyle changes including good nutrition and exercise. Today, we are happy to showcase some success stories to empower more Malaysians with diabetes to build healthy habits.”

REAL PEOPLE, REAL RESULTS

One such success story is 39-year-old chef Ainaa Munirah Pang, who managed to reach her glucose targets with support from the Glucerna® Lifestyle Change Program.

Since being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes at 27, Ainaa found it challenging to maintain a healthy regimen. However, through the 4-week program, she gained not only valuable insights into nutrition and exercise but also the support of a like-minded community.

“Joining the program was life-changing,” Ainaa shared. ”It wasn’t just about controlling my glucose level but also about finding a community of support and making small changes that added up to a big difference.”

EXPERTS WEIGH IN

The GLCP, which launched in 2021, offers guidance on diabetes management through structured plans that cover a balanced diet, diabetes-specific nutrition, regular exercise, and glucose monitoring. Participants also learn coping techniques for diabetes burnout, with support from healthcare professionals and fellow participants to help them stay committed to their health goals. So far, over 200 Malaysian adults have benefited from the program, achieving improved glucose control and well-being.

“Most Malaysians living with diabetes have obesity or overweight, so structured lifestyle interventions, nutritional management, and a robust support system can help improve their weight and condition,” said Dr. Zanariah Hussein, who heads the Endocrine Unit at Putrajaya Hospital. ”These comprehensive approaches – which are included in the GLCP – enables adults to take charge of their health, leading to better outcomes and quality of life.”

Consultant dietitian Indra Balaratnam echoed the importance of nutrition in diabetes management: “Individuals with diabetes need to be aware of their eating habits and make informed choices that incorporate a variety of foods in moderation. Whether through meal planning, smart snacking, or cooking at home with natural ingredients, it’s important to follow a balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains and lean proteins.”

Diabetes Experts Reflect on Present & Future Diabetes Awareness Efforts

WORDS LIM TECK CHOON

DIABETES EDUCATION TO PROTECT TOMORROW

The theme of World Diabetes Day in 2022 is Education to Protect Tomorrow, which calls for the need for better access to quality diabetes education for healthcare professionals and people living with diabetes.

During the recent World Diabetes Day (WDD) 2022 celebration in Putrajaya, which was jointly organized by the Endocrine Institute of Putrajaya Hospital, the Malaysian Endocrine & Metabolic Society (MEMS), and Novo Nordisk Pharma Malaysia, the experts present reflected on the need to raise public awareness among Malaysians on diabetes.

After all, the latest National Health and Morbidity Survey reported 1 in 5 adult Malaysians has type 2 diabetes!

EFFORTS NEED TO BE DOUBLED TO STOP RISING PREVALENCE 

Dato’ Dr Asmayani Khalib, the Deputy Director-General (Medical), Ministry of Health Malaysia, said: “The rising number of people affected by diabetes is putting added strain on healthcare systems. Healthcare professionals require quality diabetes education on how to detect and diagnose the condition early and provide the best possible care; while people living with diabetes need access to ongoing education to understand their condition and carry out the daily self-care essential to staying healthy and avoiding complications.”

Datuk Dr. Zanariah bt Hussein, the Head of the Endocrinology Subspecialty Service of the Malaysian Ministry of Health, felt that, as more Malaysians are diagnosed with diabetes, current efforts need to be doubled to stop this rising number from escalating further.

“Access to quality diabetes education is a goal we must all strive in, to educate and empower not only patients and the community but also family members who are providing support and care,” she said.

DIABETES EDUCATION KEY TO SUSTAINABLE LONG-TERM DIABETES CARE

“The focus on access to diabetes education is a critical aspect that will enable sustainable long-term care, with both healthcare providers and people living with diabetes receiving quality diabetes education,”  said Richard Abela, the Vice President and General Manager of Novo Nordisk Pharma Malaysia. “This is an essential component of diabetes care as we develop a patient-centric approach in care, that is sustainable for lifelong chronic disease management.”