Belize has the highest case of diabetes in North America and the Caribbean
In 2017 Diabetes accounted for 20% of all healthcare dollars spent in Belize
9% of mortality in Belize for the year 2016 were due to diabetes
The Corozal District has the third highest incidence of diabetes in Belize
Diabetes begins to feature as a leading cause ofhospitalization
The leading cause of death in persons 50 - 59 years old is diabetes, followed by diseases of the digestive and urinary system, followed by hypertension
The major causes of morbidity among persons 60 years and older is diabetes
As many as one-third to one-half of type 2 diabetes cases in the population may be un-diagnosed because they may remain without symptoms for many years
When unrecognized for a prolonged time period, the complications of chronic Hyperglycemia may develop
People with type 2 diabetes are often first diagnosed when they are present with a complication due to hyperglycemia such as a foot ulcer, change in vision, renal failure or infection
While diabetes and its complications are largely preventable, lack of access to quality health care services and lack of knowledge of preventive measures are widespread
There is a high level of medical illiteracy. People’s Diabetes Foundation will advocate for people through awareness, providing mental health support, education on proper diet and exercise routines and giving resources to those who are in need.
