Diabetes Awareness Month: A Community Call to Action
November is Diabetes Awareness Month, a time when health organizations, Indigenous communities, and individuals come together to educate, screen, and empower people at risk of diabetes. At the First Nations Health Authority (FNHA), education isn’t limited to clinics or pamphlets; it’s a community-driven effort that meets people where they are. This year, we’re sharing stories from Elders, health workers, and families to highlight why diabetes education and early screening matter for everyone.
Indigenous Leadership in Diabetes Education
FNHA’s work is anchored in the knowledge and leadership of Indigenous educators who understand the cultural, historical, and social factors that influence health. Elder Matilda Atleo, an Indigenous Diabetes Educator with FNHA, embodies this approach. Drawing from lived experience and traditional teachings, she guides people through practical strategies—food choices, physical activity, medication adherence, and self-management—that respect cultural practices while reducing risk. Her story underscores a simple truth: education that honors identity and community trust can transform health outcomes.
Why Education Matters in Diabetes Prevention
Education is the first line of defense against type 2 diabetes and its complications. When people know their risk factors—family history, weight, physical activity, nutrition—they can take proactive steps. Diabetes education programs empower individuals with skills to interpret blood sugar tests, understand medications, and recognize symptoms that require medical attention. Early awareness leads to timely screening, which catches issues before they become serious.
Screening as a Path to Empowerment
Regular screening is a powerful tool for prevention. FNHA’s approach connects screening with education—ensuring people understand what the results mean and what actions to take next. Community screening events, portable clinics, and culturally safe conversations reduce barriers to access. For some, a screening is not just a medical test; it’s a doorway to a healthier future for families and communities.
Education for Everyone: Inclusive and Accessible
Diabetes education should be accessible to all, including people in rural or remote communities, newcomers, and individuals with low health literacy. FNHA’s materials emphasize plain language, visual aids, and in-language resources where possible. Education is not a one-size-fits-all program—it’s an evolving set of tools designed to meet diverse needs, from youth to elders, and from caregivers to healthcare professionals.
Practical, Everyday Guidance
Effective diabetes education translates complex medical concepts into everyday actions. Topics include meal planning that respects cultural foods, strategies to increase daily movement, and how to monitor blood glucose in real life. For Elders like Matilda Atleo, sharing stories and traditional practices can be a bridge to modern self-management, helping people feel seen, respected, and motivated to stay engaged with their health.
Impactful Stories from the Field
Across FNHA’s networks, people are finding value in education sessions that are interactive and culturally affirming. Clients report greater confidence in managing meals, recognizing warning signs, and maintaining medication regimens. Health workers describe how community-led education builds trust—an essential ingredient for successful screening campaigns and long-term lifestyle changes. These narratives remind us that education is not just information; it is community empowerment.
What You Can Do This Diabetes Awareness Month
- Attend local diabetes education workshops and screening events.
- Ask your healthcare provider about culturally safe education resources.
- Share reliable information with family and friends to promote early detection.
- Support community leaders and educators who are guiding diabetes awareness efforts.
Education will always be a collaborative effort. By centering Indigenous knowledge, honoring personal stories, and ensuring access for everyone, FNHA is advancing a future where diabetes education leads to healthier, empowered communities.
