The Ministry of Health in Jujuy is emphasizing the importance of healthy habits to prevent diabetes at all stages of life. This message comes as part of a campaign during November, which includes World Diabetes Day on November 14.
Obesity, physical inactivity, unhealthy habits, and family history are identified as the main risk factors for developing this chronic disease. The ministry warns that diabetes can have serious consequences at any age, including childhood.
The provincial health authority, through its Strategic Health Plan II led by Minister Gustavo Bouhid and approved by Governor Carlos Sadir, has implemented various prevention and early diagnosis strategies. These include health operations, screenings, health rounds, telemedicine services (teleAPS), programs like “Step by Step for a Big Change,” and School Health initiatives. These actions involve vital checks, monitoring individuals with risk factors, and blood glucose testing. An interdisciplinary approach is also available through the Home Care Unit (UCD) for those who need it based on their clinical condition.
In collaboration with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), the ministry introduced the Diabfrail strategy at the Provincial Center for Older Adults (CEPAM). This pilot program aims to prevent and control diabetes among older adults and included 87 participants. After completing its second phase in September, participants adopted healthier habits and practical self-care skills without needing special equipment. The formation of mutual support networks was highlighted as key to improving functionality and independence among seniors.
At the Maternal and Child Hospital, a team of professionals from medicine, nursing, mental health, nutrition, and other specialties provides comprehensive care for children and adolescents with diabetes. Families receive ongoing support to ensure quality of life.
Diabetes is described as a metabolic disease characterized by high blood sugar levels due to insufficient insulin secretion or action. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates blood sugar; its deficiency can cause systemic problems affecting organs such as the heart, kidneys, eyes, and nerves.
To reduce diabetes risk, experts recommend avoiding obesity and sedentary lifestyles—often linked to diets high in carbohydrates, fried foods, sugars, fast food products, snacks, baked goods, sweets, and sugary drinks—and increasing physical activity across all ages.
“Improving daily habits is fundamental to keeping diabetes away. Preparing meals at home or choosing healthier options when eating out is a good way to start. Drinking water throughout the day is essential—it cannot be replaced by other beverages like juice or tea. Physical activity always helps: walking, cycling or playing sports will improve your body’s condition,” stated the Ministry of Health.
Diabetes often develops silently over years without symptoms but can become severe if not monitored regularly or if treatment instructions are not followed. Common symptoms include intense thirst, frequent urination, increased appetite with weight loss, slow-healing wounds, blurred vision and extreme dehydration.
People living with diabetes are advised to check their feet daily for injuries; wash them with warm water; keep them moisturized but avoid cream between toes; trim nails straight across; wear comfortable shoes; inspect footwear before use; wear seamless socks; and seek professional help if needed.
For questions or medical concerns related to diabetes care or prevention in Jujuy province residents are encouraged to visit their nearest health center using https://salud.jujuy.gob.ar/centrosdesalud/.
According to global estimates for 2025 nearly 853 million people aged 20-79 will have diabetes worldwide making it one of the leading causes of illness and premature death. In Latin America one in three adults with diabetes remains undiagnosed while one in six births is affected by high blood sugar during pregnancy—either gestational or pre-existing—which poses risks for both mother and newborn. Argentina ranks second regionally in adult cases: there were 4.3 million reported nationwide in 2024.
Awareness activities are planned together with government agencies municipalities neighborhood groups and social organizations including an open community walk on Friday November 14 starting at Puente Lavalle (Parque Lineal Xibi Xibi) at 8 am passing through Plaza de los Inmigrantes Monumento Coronel Arias ending at Multiespacio Coronel Arias where a health fair will offer workshops counseling sessions and informational stands.
