Karen Youth Organization – Mae La: World Diabetes Day 2024 Event Summary

Preface
The Karen Youth Organization – Mae La hosted an impactful series of events in observance of World Diabetes Day 2024 within our community, located on the Thai-Myanmar border. Our primary objective was to increase awareness about diabetes, promote better health practices, and foster active participation in community health initiatives. This event was made possible through the generous support of our anonymous donor, and drew a total of 300 participants. Below is a detailed account of the event activities and outcomes.

Event Overview
Title of Event: “Diabetes and Well-being” (aligned with the International Diabetes Federation's theme)

Event Type:
1. Diabetes Pre-Test Screening for Community Members
2. Healthy Breakfast with "Diabetes Plate"
3. Walking Activity for Community Members Aged 40 and Above

Organized by : Karen Youth Organization – Mae La
Location : Thai-Myanmar Border (specific location withheld)
Date : November 12, 2024
Event Duration : November 7-8, 2024, November 11, 2024, and November 12, 2024

Event Breakdown and Implementation
1. Diabetes Pre-Test Screening
Date : November 7-8, 2024
Target Audience : Community members aged 40 and above
Activity Description:
 Community announcements were made to inform residents of the scheduled diabetes screening.
 A diabetes risk assessment tool (Test2Prevent; Test2Prevent - Know your risk of type 2 diabetes | Try our risk assessment tool) was used to evaluate participants' risk levels for Type 2 Diabetes.
 The survey included both risk factor questionnaires and blood sugar level checks.
Documentation:
Participant registration lists
Photos and videos of the screening process

2. Breakfast with “Diabetes Plate”
Date : November 11, 2024
Target Audience : Local community leaders and Civil Society Organization (CSO) representatives
Activity Description:
o Invited local leaders and CSO partners to join a health-conscious breakfast event.
o The meal followed a carefully planned "Diabetes Plate" menu, designed according to nutritional guidelines for diabetes management.
o A community meal was shared in a spirit of unity and health promotion.
Documentation:
 Invitation list and participant names
 Photos and videos of the breakfast event

3. Walking Activity for People Aged 40+
Date : November 12, 2024
Target Audience : Local community members aged 40 and above, along with youth activists and community leaders
Activity Description:
• A large group of community members were invited to join a walking event, promoting physical activity as a key factor in diabetes prevention.
• Participants wore matching T-shirts branded with the official World Diabetes Day theme.
• The walk concluded at a local gathering place, where participants engaged in a group physical activity session, featuring a popular “Chicken Dance” song to encourage movement and fun.
• Speeches were delivered by community leaders and event coordinators, emphasizing the importance of diabetes awareness.
• The event ended with refreshments and shared discussions on healthy living.
Documentation:
- Participant registration
- Photos and videos of the walk and activities

Participant Data and Demographics
Total Gender Breakdown (Survey + Breakfast + Walking=365):
- Female : 145+5+113=263
- Male : 34+10+58=102
Total Age Group Breakdown:
- Under 45 years : 53+2+73=128
- 45-54 years : 58+10+51=119
- 55-64 years : 42+3+34=79
- Over 65 years : 26+0+13=39
Total Survey Results:
- Low Risk : 108+9+98=215
- Normal Risk : 59+6+60=135
- High Risk : 12+0+3=15

Conclusion
This year marks the second consecutive year that the Karen Youth Organization – Mae La has organized World Diabetes Day activities. Last year, we reached 200 participants, and this year, we expanded the scope of our outreach, engaging a larger group of 300 individuals. The success of this event demonstrates the growing awareness and commitment within our community to addressing diabetes and promoting healthier lifestyles.
Looking forward, we are committed to continuing these initiatives, with plans to introduce new, innovative approaches and activities each year. Our goal is to expand participation, increase community engagement, and continue to build a healthier, more informed community that actively participates in preventing and managing diabetes.
We are hopeful that these actions will inspire positive changes in our community’s health habits, and we are grateful to all those who made this year’s event a success.

For more information.
Please contact to – karenyouth23@gmail.com

Organizer: Karen Youth Organization - Mae La

Event Email: karenyouth23@gmail.com
Event website: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557245212482

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