Early screening helps protect your health and prevent complications
A message from Kris Kuruneri, Manager, Public Health Initiatives, Office of the Chief Medical Officer; and Tessie Harris, Diabetes Practice Advisor, Office of the Chief Nursing and Allied Health Officer
On World Diabetes Day (Nov. 14), we encourage First Nations people across BC to get screened for diabetes as part of their health and wellness journey.
Many people with Type 2 diabetes don't notice symptoms, and when diabetes is undiagnosed or unmanaged, high blood sugar can damage the heart, kidneys, eyes and blood vessels. That's why it's important to get checked, even if you're feeling fine.
A simple and common way to screen for diabetes is the A1C blood test, which measures your average blood sugar levels over the past few months. Your primary care provider (doctor or nurse practitioner) can help you access it and determine when it's appropriate for you to get screened. If you do not have a primary care provider, you can call the FNHA's First Nations Virtual Doctor of the Day for an appointment and referral support at 1-855-344-3800. You can also sign up to be attached to a family physician through BC's Health Connect Registry: register here to be on the wait list.
A diabetes diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but it is an important step in protecting your health. If you know you are living with diabetes, you can work with your care team to create a wholistic plan that supports your wellness.
First Nations community member Rachel Alexander, who lives with diabetes, shares that her health care team is very helpful in helping her manage it. “My pharmacist wants to know the results of my A1C every three months. He's really on top of it, telling me, 'Get back on track, the numbers are a little high,' or 'You're doing good this term,' and stuff like that. There's a lot of support and encouragement from both my doctor and the pharmacist – my best interest is important to them, so I'm very comfortable with them."
Rachel is just one example of someone living well with diabetes. You can read more First Nations diabetes wellness champions' stories here.
It is important to know that you can live a healthy, balanced, and full life while managing diabetes – and that you can take ownership and control as the lead in your management. It is your body, it is your wellness. With the right supports and care, you can continue to enjoy your culture, community, and the activities that bring you joy. As your health and wellness partner, the FNHA is here to walk alongside you on your wellness journey, offering resources and guidance that respect First Nations values and traditions.
This month, we encourage you to take the first step for yourself and your family: get checked for diabetes and encourage others in your community to do the same. Together, we can raise awareness, reduce stigma, and promote early detection. Let's use World Diabetes Day as an opportunity to prioritize our wellness and support one another in living strong, vibrant lives!
Resources
To learn more about diabetes, including common signs/symptoms, please visit our diabetes webpage.
10 Common Myths About Type 2 Diabetes
