ReThink
Background
The prevalence of diabetes, both type 1 and type 2, is on the rise globally, presenting a significant public health challenge. In Europe, particularly among youth, diagnosed cases of both types of diabetes are surging, reflecting a concerning trend in the continent’s health landscape. With approximately 1 in 10 individuals now living with diabetes, the impact of this chronic condition reverberates across communities, affecting millions of lives. Recent studies, such as the one published in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health, underscore the critical role of physical activity in mitigating the risk of type 2 diabetes among European populations. However, lifestyle factors, including poor diet, sedentary habits, and obesity, continue to contribute to the increasing prevalence of type 2 diabetes, particularly evident in countries like Greece and Bulgaria. According to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), Greece has witnessed a notable prevalence of diabetes among adults, reaching approximately 10.5% in 2019. As the most common form of diabetes in Greece and Bulgaria, type 2 diabetes underscores the urgency of comprehensive interventions targeting lifestyle modifications and proactive healthcare strategies. In this context, the ReThink Guidebook serves as a timely resource, equipping social workers and healthcare professionals with the knowledge and tools necessary to address the multifaceted challenges posed by diabetes effectively.
Project description
ReThink aims to combat the growing prevalence of Diabetes in Europe by promoting awareness, early diagnosis, and healthy lifestyles among adults. Through developing a Guidebook for social workers and healthcare providers, the project will equip them with the knowledge and skills to create safe and inclusive environments for adults with diabetes, ensuring their active participation in various activities. More specifically, ReThink aims to improve the quality of life and well-being of people with diabetes and those at risk by:
– Enhancing the knowledge, skills and competences of adult workers and organizations in the field of diabetes
– Developing an educational guidebook for social workers
– Creating awareness of diabetes through a targeted communication campaign
– Advocating for the active participation of people with diabetes in sports and physical activities