Cancer Control Strategy Unveiled

One of the things that we heard during the needs assessment was peoples' concern about chronic diseases such as cancer and diabetes.  People want to know that Eastern Health and the province are actively working to address high rates of chronic disease in this area.  Yesterday, the provincial government unveiled a provincial cancer control strategy entitled Gaining Ground: A Provincial Cancer Control Policy Framework for Newfoundland and Labrador.  The goal of the strategy is to reduce the incidence and impact of cancer and to improve the quality of life of those living with cancer in Newfoundland and Labrador.  You can read all about the strategy here.

November - A Look at Diabetes

November is Diabetes Awareness Month.  And November 14 is World Diabetes Day.

Did you know that our province of Newfoundland and Labrador has the highest rate of diabetes in Canada? 

According to the 2008 Canadian Community Health Survey, 8.1% of the population over the age of 12 reported being diagnosed by a health professional as having diabetes.  Within our province, that figure is 8.8% while nationally, 5.9% of respondents reported receiving that diagnosis.

During the needs assessment process, many people expressed concern about chronic diseases, particularly diabetes.  They worry about the high rates and indicated a desire to ensure education sessions are available to people in their communities around topics like healthy eating.