THUNDER BAY – The Ontario Native Women’s Association’s Mindimooyenh Health Clinic is offering health programming that addresses diabetes prevention this month.
November is Diabetes Awareness Month and in alignment with the World Health Organization’s Diabetes and Well-being theme, ONWA’s programming will offer an Indigenous perspective on living well with diabetes.
In a news release ONWA states that diabetes impacts many Indigenous communities across Canada: 17.2 per cent among First Nations individuals living on-reserve, 12.7 per cent among First Nations individuals living off-reserve, 4.7 per cent among Inuit people, and 9.9 per cent among Métis people, compared to five per cent in the general population.
ONWA is raising awareness about diabetes, promoting overall well-being, and empowering Indigenous women to take control of their health. Throughout November, ONWA invites Ontario residents to join in a series of virtual, family-friendly events designed to foster wellness, the release said.
These events include weekly fitness classes, beading activities, and an Indigenous women’s health talk with Indigenous family physician Dr. Alexa Lesperance.
There is also a World Diabetes Day journal entry contest, a promotion inviting Indigenous women and their families to share their stories on how they are living well with diabetes or working to reduce their risk of diabetes. Submissions of journal entries will be accepted starting Nov. 14, until midnight on Nov 21. Participants will be entered to win exciting prizes.
For more details, to register, or to enter the contest, visit the website.
