Overview:
Palau joined the global call to action on World Diabetes Day with a community march that brought nearly 150 people together to promote healthier lifestyles and raise awareness about one of the nation’s most pressing health challenges. Here’s a look at the messages, motivations and moments that defined the event.
By: Summer Kennard
KOROR, Palau — “Over 50% of the adult population in Palau—both Palauans and foreign residents—have pre-diabetes or diabetes,” Minister of Human and Health Services and Vice President Arnold Oilouch said Wednesday, setting a serious tone as more than 140 people joined a community march to mark World Diabetes Day and raise awareness about the growing health crisis.
The Ministry of Human and Health Services, in partnership with the Non-Communicable Disease Unit, hosted the Nov. 14 march under this year’s global theme, “Diabetes and Well-Being.” The event aimed to encourage healthier lifestyles and strengthen community understanding of diabetes prevention and management.
A total of 147 participants registered for the march, which began at the Palau National Gym and ended at the Belau National Hospital. The program opened with registration and a prayer before Minister Oilouch delivered welcome remarks emphasizing the urgency of addressing diabetes in the country.
“Let us use this occasion to raise awareness about diabetes. We also want to encourage Palauans to improve their lifestyles and support the fight against diabetes,” he said.
Special remarks were given by Santy Asanuma, Public Ambassador for Diabetes, who encouraged participants to adopt both defensive and offensive approaches to health. Asanuma described his personal transition from reactive care—responding only when problems emerged—to proactive health habits such as mobility exercises and maintaining a nutritious diet.
Participants in the march also shared their motivations for joining. “I believe these occasions hosted for awareness are very important, especially when it has impacted people’s well-being. We want to encourage the fight and just spread awareness,” one participant said.
Another participant added, “Chronic illnesses such as diabetes have affected many lives, and we want to spread awareness and exercise while we’re at it. To remind each other to take care of ourselves, life is so precious.”