Doha, November 10 (QNA) - Qatar Diabetes Association (QDA) has launched its annual Early Action on Diabetes campaign, underscoring the importance of recognizing the signs of diabetes, securing an early diagnosis and accessing timely care, while raising awareness of the risk factors for type 2 diabetes and ways to prevent them.

Held to mark World Diabetes Day, observed annually on Nov. 14, the drive includes assessments of risk factors for type 2 diabetes, as well as awareness programs and talks at several schools, training workshops for nursing staff and a training program on the use of insulin pumps to manage type 1 diabetes.

QDA Executive Director Dr. Abdulla Al Hamaq said this year's campaign seeks to help members of the community recognize the signs of diabetes and its risk factors and get tested in a timely manner.

He added that the Diabetes Walkathon, which QDA is organizing on Nov. 13 as part of the celebrations, provides an opportunity for families and community members to come together and encourages them to engage in regular physical activity, given its role in reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes.

The Association invited members of the community, families, schools and organizations to take part in the walkathon and benefit from the accompanying health screenings and activities at Aspire Park.

Type 1 diabetes is characterized by a complete lack of insulin in the human body because the immune system attacks and destroys the pancreatic cells that produce it. This type of diabetes often affects children and young people, who require daily insulin doses for life.

Type 2 diabetes, meanwhile, is a condition in which the pancreas produces insufficient amounts of insulin, or the body's cells don't respond to it properly. It usually affects adults and older people and is closely linked to excess weight, physical inactivity and genetic factors. It can be prevented or managed by adopting a healthy lifestyle. (QNA)