Diabetes Rising Among the Young — Awareness Isn’t Enough, We Need Local Action Now

By: Dr. Cynthia Dela Cruz

Kalibo, Aklan — July 2025 — As the nation marks National Diabetes Awareness Week, health experts are sounding the alarm: Diabetes is not just an adult problem — it’s becoming a serious threat to young Filipinos.

In the Philippines, around 7.1% to 7.5% of adults have been diagnosed with diabetes — that’s an estimated 4.3 million Filipinos. Even more alarming, 2.8 million remain undiagnosed, silently living with a disease that could lead to heart disease, kidney failure, blindness, and early death. Diabetes now ranks as the fourth leading cause of death in the country.

According to Dr. Cynthia Dela Cruz, pediatrician and advocate with the MMG Aklan Group of Medical Specialists, “We are now seeing signs of diabetes in children and teenagers. This is tied to modern lifestyles — sugary diets, fast food, long hours on screens, and lack of exercise.”

The Call to Action

This growing crisis calls for urgent and coordinated public health action, especially at the local government level. Dr. Dela Cruz and other health professionals are urging:
• Municipal and barangay-level ordinances that promote healthy food in schools and restrict junk food marketing to minors
• Stronger health education programs in classrooms and youth centers
• Free and regular diabetes screening for both adults and school-age children
• Community fitness campaigns and infrastructure for safe physical activity (like parks, bike lanes, and sports centers)
• Support for families living with diabetes, including local access to clinics and affordable medication

“We need more than just awareness—we need local leaders to act,” said Dr. Dela Cruz. “Let’s not wait until more young lives are burdened by a preventable disease.”

This July, let’s protect the future generation. Start with awareness. Support healthy choices. Demand better policies.