The Ministry of Health (MOH) in Singapore has released a summary report highlighting the key initiatives and progress made on the War of Diabetes (WoD) over the past three years in addressing the rising trend of diabetes among Singaporeans.

The report was launched by Edwin Tong, Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Law and Ministry of Health, at the World Diabetes Day event organised by Diabetes Singapore.

MOH launched the WoD in 2016, in response to the significant health and societal burden posed by diabetes, and established the national Diabetes Prevention and Care Taskforce to spearhead a whole-of-nation initiative to tackle diabetes. The vision of the Taskforce is to create a supportive environment for people in Singapore to lead lives free from diabetes, and for those with diabetes to manage the condition well.

The War on Diabetes has seen progress in garnering a whole-of-nation effort ranging from, but not limited to healthcare professionals, industries, community partners and citizens. The WoD summary report highlights the key initiatives and progress made under the three pillars of the War on Diabetes strategic framework:

            (i) Prevention through healthy living;
           (ii) Early detection and intervention; and
          (iii) Better disease management.

These key thrusts are underpinned by cross-cutting enablers such as public education and stakeholder engagement, as well as data and analysis, technology and research.

Prevention through healthy living

1. increased the availability and accessibility of healthier options for Singaporeans
2. More food manufacturers are developing healthier ingredients
3. Singaporeans of all ages have more support in adopting a healthy lifestyle

Early detection and intervention

1. Screening is now more convenient and affordable.
2. There is more targeted support for different population segments.

Better disease management

1. Individuals with diabetes are getting greater support to manage their conditions
2. introduced more initiatives and programmes to address common complications associated with diabetes