During this 'Diabetes Awareness Month' of November, the Ministry of Health and Wellness continues to advocate for better lifestyle choices, so that diabetes and other non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are no longer a threat to the well-being of Bahamians.

For 'World Diabetes Day': this was the message at the Third Annual Bahamas Diabetes Association Symposium held under the theme, 'Diabetes and Well-being,' on Thursday, November 14, 2024 at St. Gregory’s Anglican Church, Carmichael Road.

Dr. Cherita Moxey, delivered remarks at the opening ceremony, on behalf of the Minister of Health and Wellness, the Hon. Dr. Michael Darville.

She congratulated Lyndianna Rahming, Bahamas Diabetes Association (BDA) president, along with her dedicated associates, and the Healthy Bahamas Coalition for their outstanding work in organizing the event and supporting the diabetic community across the nation.

Diabetes, like other NCDs, represents not just an individual health issue, but is seen as a collective challenge carrying huge health, social and economic costs as well as indirect costs, such as that for caregivers as an example.

In this vein, the Ministry of Health encouraged all to take full advantage of events like the symposium to share experiences, engage with experts, and build partnerships.

“It is through dialogue and collaboration that we can begin to shift community perspectives on diabetes and other NCDs and work together to reduce their incidence and burden in The Bahamas,” said Dr. Moxey.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO) the top five causes of death in the Caribbean region over the past decade are obesity, chronic heart disease, hypertension, certain cancers and diabetes, all NCDs.

“We must now be intentional to 'action' the knowledge we have – stay active, stay hydrated, consume healthy foods and engage in regular health screenings to reduce the prevalence of NCDs and improve overall well-being,” said Dr. Moxey.

She said the Ministry of Health and Wellness is committed to enacting policies, legislation and promoting environments that support healthier lifestyles; however, it is important to note that this cannot be achieved alone.  

“Each individual has a vital role to play in managing and preventing NCDs and must be determined to make lifestyle adjustments.

“Simple, consistent actions can help prevent NCDs and reduce the risks associated with them.  We must work together as a community, to make the necessary changes to see a positive return on our collective investment in the well-being of our brothers and sisters,” said Dr. Moxey. 

During this 'Diabetes Awareness Month' of November, the Ministry of Health and Wellness continues to advocate for better lifestyle choices, so that diabetes and other non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are no longer a threat to the well-being of Bahamians. For 'World Diabetes Day': this was the message at the Third Annual Bahamas Diabetes Association Symposium held under the theme, 'Diabetes and Well-being,' on Thursday, November 14, 2024 at St. Gregory’s Anglican Church, Carmichael Road. Dr. Cherita Moxey, delivered remarks at the opening ceremony, on behalf of the Minister of Health and Wellness, the Hon. Dr. Michael Darville. She congratulated Lyndianna Rahming, Bahamas Diabetes Association (BDA) president, along with her dedicated associates, and the Healthy Bahamas Coalition for their outstanding work in organizing the event and supporting the diabetic community across the nation. Diabetes, like other NCDs, represents not just an individual health issue, but is seen as a collective challenge carrying huge health, social and economic costs as well as indirect costs, such as that for caregivers as an example. In this vein, the Ministry of Health encouraged all to take full advantage of events like the symposium to share experiences, engage with experts, and build partnerships. “It is through dialogue and collaboration that we can begin to shift community perspectives on diabetes and other NCDs and work together to reduce their incidence and burden in The Bahamas,” said Dr. Moxey. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) the top five causes of death in the Caribbean region over the past decade are obesity, chronic heart disease, hypertension, certain cancers and diabetes, all NCDs. “We must now be intentional to 'action' the knowledge we have – stay active, stay hydrated, consume healthy foods and engage in regular health screenings to reduce the prevalence of NCDs and improve overall well-being,” said Dr. Moxey. She said the Ministry of Health and Wellness is committed to enacting policies, legislation and promoting environments that support healthier lifestyles; however, it is important to note that this cannot be achieved alone.   “Each individual has a vital role to play in managing and preventing NCDs and must be determined to make lifestyle adjustments.   “Simple, consistent actions can help prevent NCDs and reduce the risks associated with them.  We must work together as a community, to make the necessary changes to see a positive return on our collective investment in the well-being of our brothers and sisters,” said Dr. Moxey. 

The vast majority of people with diabetes — more than 90% of them — are living with Type 2 diabetes. But there are other kinds, too, and they’re easily confused. Especially when talking about the differences between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, myths and inaccuracies abound.

Cleveland Clinic Ohio’s certified diabetes care and education specialist Shannon Knapp. Med, BSN, RN, CDCES, speaks on the differences between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, why they happen and how to best manage your life with the conditions.

It starts with insulin, a hormone made in your pancreas that helps your body glucose.

“Glucose is a good thing to have in our body, but it has to get into our body’s cells in order to give us energy,” Knapps explains. “Glucose starts in the bloodstream, and insulin acts as a key that unlocks the doors of the cells. It allows glucose to get out of our bloodstream and into our cells.”

People with diabetes fall into one of two camps. Those are people whose bodies don’t make any insulin and those whose bodies have a hard time using the insulin it makes properly.

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disorder. That means it’s caused by an overactive immune system.

When you have Type 1 diabetes, your body doesn’t produce insulin. That’s because your immune system mistakes cells in your pancreas for invaders. Your immune system attacks your insulin-making cells, destroying your natural ability to produce insulin.

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disorder. That means it’s caused by an overactive immune system.

People with Type 2 diabetes do make insulin — at least at first. But their bodies don’t use it properly. It’s called insulin resistance and it happens when the cells in your muscles, liver and fat stop responding to insulin.

Going back to Knapp’s analogy of insulin as a key to the doors of your cells, Type 2 diabetes is like having the key to the house, but the lock is sticky. You jiggle the key a few times. You pull the key out and put it back in over and over. Eventually, you give up on using the key. You knock on the door and hope someone is home to answer.

The same thing happens in your pancreas when you have insulin resistance.

In the early stages of insulin resistance, your pancreas goes into overdrive trying to make more insulin. That’s called hyperinsulinemia. It’s making more keys, trying to get them to work. But eventually, it can give up and toss the keys to the side.

“As time goes by for people with Type 2 diabetes, their pancreas will generally make less and less insulin because it’s not being effective anyway,” Knapp explains. “Eventually, it may not make any insulin at all.”

People with Type 1 diabetes must take synthetic insulin medication. Their bodies don’t make it, and they can’t stay healthy without it.

Some people with Type 2 diabetes take synthetic insulin if their bodies have stopped producing insulin on their own or if they need more.

“It’s not unusual for people with Type 2 diabetes to take insulin at some point because their pancreas stops making enough,” Knapp confirms.

Insulin is often taken one or more times each day by injecting it with a syringe or an insulin pen. It can also be taken continuously with the help of an insulin pump. There’s even an inhaled form of insulin.

People with Type 2 also may take other medications to help manage their condition. Some medications encourage their pancreas to make more insulin, others work by encouraging their liver to release less glucose and some can help their cells to use insulin better.

Both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes require some lifestyle changes, however, they are both similar in that they require maintaining a healthy glucose level.

One way people do this is with glucose monitoring devices, like glucose sticks, finger sticks or continuous glucose monitors.

And eating a healthy diet is critical for anyone with diabetes. Knapp advises that people with diabetes focus on eating lean proteins, non-starchy vegetables, healthy fats and complex carbohydrates

“What you eat will affect your glucose levels, regardless of what type of diabetes you have,” she adds. “Healthy meal planning is important for everyone, whether they have diabetes or not. But people with diabetes are striving for a balance between what they eat and all the other things that impact their glucose level, like activity and insulin or other medications.”

Stress management is also key for people with diabetes. According to Knapp, “Hormones released during our stress response can raise our heart rates, blood pressure and glucose levels. Stress and emotional responses also make it more difficult to eat right, exercise and take care of yourself, which makes it harder to manage diabetes. So, stress management matters a lot.”

Some people think of Type 1 diabetes as a progression of Type 2 diabetes, but that’s not the case.

Remember that the causes of Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes are different. If you have an autoimmune condition that keeps you from making inulin, you have Type 1 diabetes. If you have insulin resistance, that’s Type 2 diabetes.

“It’s a common misconception that if you take insulin, you must have Type 1 diabetes, but that’s not the case,” Knapp clarifies. “People take insulin when their bodies don’t produce insulin or don’t produce enough insulin. Taking insulin isn’t an indication of what type of diabetes you have.”

The vast majority of people with diabetes — more than 90% of them — are living with Type 2 diabetes. But there are other kinds, too, and they’re easily confused. Especially when talking about the differences between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, myths and inaccuracies abound. Cleveland Clinic Ohio’s certified diabetes care and education specialist Shannon Knapp. Med, BSN, RN, CDCES, speaks on the differences between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, why they happen and how to best manage your life with the conditions. It starts with insulin, a hormone made in your pancreas that helps your body glucose. “Glucose is a good thing to have in our body, but it has to get into our body’s cells in order to give us energy,” Knapps explains. “Glucose starts in the bloodstream, and insulin acts as a key that unlocks the doors of the cells. It allows glucose to get out of our bloodstream and into our cells.” People with diabetes fall into one of two camps. Those are people whose bodies don’t make any insulin and those whose bodies have a hard time using the insulin it makes properly. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disorder. That means it’s caused by an overactive immune system. When you have Type 1 diabetes, your body doesn’t produce insulin. That’s because your immune system mistakes cells in your pancreas for invaders. Your immune system attacks your insulin-making cells, destroying your natural ability to produce insulin. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disorder. That means it’s caused by an overactive immune system. People with Type 2 diabetes do make insulin — at least at first. But their bodies don’t use it properly. It’s called insulin resistance and it happens when the cells in your muscles, liver and fat stop responding to insulin. Going back to Knapp’s analogy of insulin as a key to the doors of your cells, Type 2 diabetes is like having the key to the house, but the lock is sticky. You jiggle the key a few times. You pull the key out and put it back in over and over. Eventually, you give up on using the key. You knock on the door and hope someone is home to answer. The same thing happens in your pancreas when you have insulin resistance. In the early stages of insulin resistance, your pancreas goes into overdrive trying to make more insulin. That’s called hyperinsulinemia. It’s making more keys, trying to get them to work. But eventually, it can give up and toss the keys to the side. “As time goes by for people with Type 2 diabetes, their pancreas will generally make less and less insulin because it’s not being effective anyway,” Knapp explains. “Eventually, it may not make any insulin at all.” People with Type 1 diabetes must take synthetic insulin medication. Their bodies don’t make it, and they can’t stay healthy without it. Some people with Type 2 diabetes take synthetic insulin if their bodies have stopped producing insulin on their own or if they need more. “It’s not unusual for people with Type 2 diabetes to take insulin at some point because their pancreas stops making enough,” Knapp confirms. Insulin is often taken one or more times each day by injecting it with a syringe or an insulin pen. It can also be taken continuously with the help of an insulin pump. There’s even an inhaled form of insulin. People with Type 2 also may take other medications to help manage their condition. Some medications encourage their pancreas to make more insulin, others work by encouraging their liver to release less glucose and some can help their cells to use insulin better. Both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes require some lifestyle changes, however, they are both similar in that they require maintaining a healthy glucose level. One way people do this is with glucose monitoring devices, like glucose sticks, finger sticks or continuous glucose monitors. And eating a healthy diet is critical for anyone with diabetes. Knapp advises that people with diabetes focus on eating lean proteins, non-starchy vegetables, healthy fats and complex carbohydrates “What you eat will affect your glucose levels, regardless of what type of diabetes you have,” she adds. “Healthy meal planning is important for everyone, whether they have diabetes or not. But people with diabetes are striving for a balance between what they eat and all the other things that impact their glucose level, like activity and insulin or other medications.” Stress management is also key for people with diabetes. According to Knapp, “Hormones released during our stress response can raise our heart rates, blood pressure and glucose levels. Stress and emotional responses also make it more difficult to eat right, exercise and take care of yourself, which makes it harder to manage diabetes. So, stress management matters a lot.” Some people think of Type 1 diabetes as a progression of Type 2 diabetes, but that’s not the case. Remember that the causes of Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes are different. If you have an autoimmune condition that keeps you from making inulin, you have Type 1 diabetes. If you have insulin resistance, that’s Type 2 diabetes. “It’s a common misconception that if you take insulin, you must have Type 1 diabetes, but that’s not the case,” Knapp clarifies. “People take insulin when their bodies don’t produce insulin or don’t produce enough insulin. Taking insulin isn’t an indication of what type of diabetes you have.”

Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit multispecialty academic medical center that integrates clinical and hospital care with research and education. As part of its continued efforts to ensure greater access to quality care for patients around the world, Cleveland Clinic is broadening its network with the addition of a second in-country representative in the Bahamas.

Cleveland Clinic’s in-country representatives have in-depth knowledge of the latest treatments available, and they draw on their shared language and cultural understanding to facilitate a smooth journey for patients.

As an independent in-country representative for the Bahamas, Allison Moss-Ferguson acts as a local liaison between Bahamian patients and Cleveland Clinic. “The most important aspect of my role is to assist patients with scheduling their appointments and provide them with the necessary information for their visit to Cleveland Clinic,” said Moss-Ferguson.

“Based on my experience, patients typically come to Cleveland Clinic when seeking a specialized doctor,” said Moss-Ferguson. Prior to her role at Cleveland Clinic, Moss-Ferguson worked in human resources and the financial industry.

Cleveland Clinic has pioneered many medical breakthroughs, including coronary artery bypass surgery, deep brain stimulation surgery to restore function after a stroke, and the first face transplant in the United States. In 2023, the IBM Quantum System One was installed at Cleveland Clinic; it is the first quantum computer in the world to be uniquely dedicated to healthcare research with an aim to help Cleveland Clinic accelerate biomedical discoveries.

As one of the world’s top hospital systems, Cleveland Clinic provides its patients with access to a global network of physicians and specialists who deliver high quality care and patient experience.

With 24/7 access to global patient services, the in-country representatives can connect patients to Cleveland Clinic care available at locations across the United States, and in Toronto, Canada; London, U.K.; and Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. They can arrange online educational consultations, second opinions where available, and follow-up appointments, as well as in-person treatment at the most convenient Cleveland Clinic hospital, complete with travel arrangements for patients and their families.

Tommaso Falcone, M.D., Executive Vice President and President of International and Emerging Markets at Cleveland Clinic, said that in-country representatives have been selected for their local knowledge including a deep understanding of healthcare.

“We believe every individual can benefit from the quality of care Cleveland Clinic provides. By expanding our network of in-country representatives, we are able to facilitate access to care,” said Dr. Falcone.

Bahamians interested in connecting with Cleveland Clinic for care can contact either in-country representatives: Allison Moss-Ferguson and Shenika Nesbitt. Nesbitt has served in that role since 2018.

“Our representatives are trained and kept up to date with the range of expertise and newest treatments available in Cleveland Clinic’s global network, so we can ensure they connect our patients with the correct team of experts for their needs. The aim is to provide a seamless patient experience from the initial consultation to post-treatment follow-ups by leveraging the interconnectedness of our global health system,” said Dr. Falcone.

The in-country representatives’ roles also include connecting local medical professionals with training and continuing medical education offered by Cleveland Clinic.

Cleveland Clinic’s health system currently has 23 hospitals and 276 outpatient facilities globally. In 2023, patients came for treatment from 132 countries. Access for international patients is enhanced by a seamless, global interface with 24/7 access portals and digital medicine capabilities. For a list of in-country representatives, please check Cleveland Clinic’s Global Patient Services.

Cleveland Clinic is a nonprofit multispecialty academic medical center that integrates clinical and hospital care with research and education. Located in Cleveland, Ohio, it was founded in 1921 by four renowned physicians with a vision of providing outstanding patient care based upon the principles of cooperation, compassion and innovation. Cleveland Clinic has pioneered many medical breakthroughs, including coronary artery bypass surgery and the first face transplant in the United States. Cleveland Clinic is consistently recognized in the U.S. and throughout the world for its expertise and care. Among Cleveland Clinic’s 81,000 employees worldwide are more than 5,743 salaried physicians and researchers, and 20,160 registered nurses and advanced practice providers, representing 140 medical specialties and subspecialties. Cleveland Clinic is a 6,690-bed health system that includes a 173-acre main campus near downtown Cleveland, 23 hospitals, 276 outpatient facilities, including locations in northeast Ohio; Florida; Las Vegas, Nevada; Toronto, Canada; Abu Dhabi, UAE; and London, England. In 2023, there were 13.7 million outpatient encounters, 323,000 hospital admissions and observations, and 301,000 surgeries and procedures throughout Cleveland Clinic’s health system. Patients came for treatment from every state and 132 countries. Visit us at clevelandclinic.org. Follow us at twitter.com/CleClinicNews. News and resources available at newsroom.clevelandclinic.org.

Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit multispecialty academic medical center that integrates clinical and hospital care with research and education. As part of its continued efforts to ensure greater access to quality care for patients around the world, Cleveland Clinic is broadening its network with the addition of a second in-country representative in the Bahamas. Cleveland Clinic’s in-country representatives have in-depth knowledge of the latest treatments available, and they draw on their shared language and cultural understanding to facilitate a smooth journey for patients. As an independent in-country representative for the Bahamas, Allison Moss-Ferguson acts as a local liaison between Bahamian patients and Cleveland Clinic. “The most important aspect of my role is to assist patients with scheduling their appointments and provide them with the necessary information for their visit to Cleveland Clinic,” said Moss-Ferguson. “Based on my experience, patients typically come to Cleveland Clinic when seeking a specialized doctor,” said Moss-Ferguson. Prior to her role at Cleveland Clinic, Moss-Ferguson worked in human resources and the financial industry. Cleveland Clinic has pioneered many medical breakthroughs, including coronary artery bypass surgery, deep brain stimulation surgery to restore function after a stroke, and the first face transplant in the United States. In 2023, the IBM Quantum System One was installed at Cleveland Clinic; it is the first quantum computer in the world to be uniquely dedicated to healthcare research with an aim to help Cleveland Clinic accelerate biomedical discoveries. As one of the world’s top hospital systems, Cleveland Clinic provides its patients with access to a global network of physicians and specialists who deliver high quality care and patient experience. With 24/7 access to global patient services, the in-country representatives can connect patients to Cleveland Clinic care available at locations across the United States, and in Toronto, Canada; London, U.K.; and Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. They can arrange online educational consultations, second opinions where available, and follow-up appointments, as well as in-person treatment at the most convenient Cleveland Clinic hospital, complete with travel arrangements for patients and their families. Tommaso Falcone, M.D., Executive Vice President and President of International and Emerging Markets at Cleveland Clinic, said that in-country representatives have been selected for their local knowledge including a deep understanding of healthcare. “We believe every individual can benefit from the quality of care Cleveland Clinic provides. By expanding our network of in-country representatives, we are able to facilitate access to care,” said Dr. Falcone. Bahamians interested in connecting with Cleveland Clinic for care can contact either in-country representatives: Allison Moss-Ferguson and Shenika Nesbitt. Nesbitt has served in that role since 2018. “Our representatives are trained and kept up to date with the range of expertise and newest treatments available in Cleveland Clinic’s global network, so we can ensure they connect our patients with the correct team of experts for their needs. The aim is to provide a seamless patient experience from the initial consultation to post-treatment follow-ups by leveraging the interconnectedness of our global health system,” said Dr. Falcone. The in-country representatives’ roles also include connecting local medical professionals with training and continuing medical education offered by Cleveland Clinic. Cleveland Clinic’s health system currently has 23 hospitals and 276 outpatient facilities globally. In 2023, patients came for treatment from 132 countries. Access for international patients is enhanced by a seamless, global interface with 24/7 access portals and digital medicine capabilities. For a list of in-country representatives, please check Cleveland Clinic’s Global Patient Services. Cleveland Clinic is a nonprofit multispecialty academic medical center that integrates clinical and hospital care with research and education. Located in Cleveland, Ohio, it was founded in 1921 by four renowned physicians with a vision of providing outstanding patient care based upon the principles of cooperation, compassion and innovation. Cleveland Clinic has pioneered many medical breakthroughs, including coronary artery bypass surgery and the first face transplant in the United States. Cleveland Clinic is consistently recognized in the U.S. and throughout the world for its expertise and care. Among Cleveland Clinic’s 81,000 employees worldwide are more than 5,743 salaried physicians and researchers, and 20,160 registered nurses and advanced practice providers, representing 140 medical specialties and subspecialties. Cleveland Clinic is a 6,690-bed health system that includes a 173-acre main campus near downtown Cleveland, 23 hospitals, 276 outpatient facilities, including locations in northeast Ohio; Florida; Las Vegas, Nevada; Toronto, Canada; Abu Dhabi, UAE; and London, England. In 2023, there were 13.7 million outpatient encounters, 323,000 hospital admissions and observations, and 301,000 surgeries and procedures throughout Cleveland Clinic’s health system. Patients came for treatment from every state and 132 countries. Visit us at clevelandclinic.org. Follow us at twitter.com/CleClinicNews. News and resources available at newsroom.clevelandclinic.org.

This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Public Hospitals Authority (PHA) urges all women to prioritize their health by scheduling a mammogram at Princess Margaret Hospital’s Radiology Department. Inrecognition of the importance of early detection, mammogram screenings will be available free of charge until October 31, 2024.

Accessible for both walk-ins and appointments, our mammography services are offered Monday throughFriday, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. With early screening, individuals gain peace of mind and increase thechances of successful treatment if needed.

This October, let’s honor the fighters, celebrate the survivors, and remember those we’ve lost bycommitting to proactive health measures for ourselves and supporting those we love. Early detection iscrucial, and together, we can make a difference in the fight against breast cancer.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call 322-2861 ext. 4199

Make your health a priority—let’s stand strong together against breast cancer.

This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Public Hospitals Authority (PHA) urges all women to prioritize their health by scheduling a mammogram at Princess Margaret Hospital’s Radiology Department. In recognition of the importance of early detection, mammogram screenings will be available free of charge until October 31, 2024. Accessible for both walk-ins and appointments, our mammography services are offered Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. With early screening, individuals gain peace of mind and increase the chances of successful treatment if needed. This October, let’s honor the fighters, celebrate the survivors, and remember those we’ve lost by committing to proactive health measures for ourselves and supporting those we love. Early detection is crucial, and together, we can make a difference in the fight against breast cancer. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call 322-2861 ext. 4199 Make your health a priority—let’s stand strong together against breast cancer.