Diabetes affects seven percent of the Haitian population

According to recent data, seven percent of the population in Haiti suffers from diabetes, a proportion that exceeds ten percent among people over 60 years old. The president of Fhadimac, Dr. Nancy Charles Larco, recommends getting screened starting at age 30 in order to manage type 2 of the disease, which affects more than 90% of adults who have it.

Currently, more than half of patients receive their diagnosis only when complications have already appeared. The official points out that frequent urination and a decline in vision are among the first suggestive symptoms.

Lifestyle habits and diet

Besides age, heredity, or a sedentary lifestyle, stress is a key factor as it causes spikes in blood sugar. To counter these risks, the institution encourages adopting a healthy lifestyle that combines physical exercise with a reorganization of meals. Dr. Larco suggests drawing inspiration from the Mediterranean model using local products, by composing plates with two portions of vegetables, one of starch, and one of protein.

Fish consumption should be prioritized over red meat, while moderating the use of raw olive oil and avoiding fats and sugars. As for plants like cinnamon or aloe vera, the practitioner reminds us that they do not replace a prior test and warns against miracle recipes spread on the internet. Checking blood sugar two hours after a meal remains advisable.

A campaign focused on early screening

As part of World Diabetes Day, set for November 14, 2026, awareness activities will be held around the theme "Act early." The main objective is to push adults to get tested quickly. According to global forecasts, the number of cases worldwide is expected to exceed 635 million by the year 2050.