IN CELEBRATION of Diabetes Awareness Week, the Davao City Health Office (CHO) is providing complimentary consultations, screenings, and medications for diabetes in various barangay health stations and district health centers.
This initiative aims to significantly improve healthcare access for city residents, especially those at high risk of developing this chronic condition.
Medical check-ups are available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. every Friday, catering not only to individuals already diagnosed with diabetes but also to those who are concerned about their potential risk factors.
The free screenings include both random blood sugar tests and fasting blood sugar assessments.
While some barangay health centers might charge a nominal fee for certain services, the majority remain completely free of charge.
“Medications are free. Don’t be afraid to get checked. With diabetes, early detection is crucial to avoid complications,” Dr. Shri Angelo L. Reyes, the Non-Communicable Diseases Medical Coordinator at the City Health Office, said.
Reyes elaborated on the distinctions between Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes: Type 1 is often congenital, while Type 2 is frequently linked to preventable lifestyle choices, including poor dietary habits and insufficient physical activity.
He emphasized the importance of regular screenings, highlighting that Type 2 Diabetes can present with symptoms such as extreme thirst, frequent urination, or insatiable hunger, but in some cases, individuals may not experience any symptoms at all.
“There are instances where there are no visible symptoms, yet blood sugar levels may be alarmingly high. That’s why screening is truly essential,” he noted.
According to data from the CHO, from January to May 2025, Davao City reported approximately 12,000 cases of diabetes.
In response to this public health challenge, the city has also launched the Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) Program, which provides comprehensive support for patients wrestling with both diabetes and heart-related issues.
Residents who find themselves identified as borderline diabetic are encouraged to take proactive steps: reducing their sugar intake, embracing healthier lifestyle choices, enhancing their sleep quality, and, if necessary, shedding excess weight. While diabetes remains a chronic condition without a cure, its advancement and the associated complications can be effectively managed through a combination of medication, lifestyle modifications, and ongoing medical oversight. Ramheryn P. Dian, DSSC Intern
