Today (1 November) marks the start of Diabetes Action Month in New Zealand.
This annual campaign aims to educate the public that diabete has become a major health issue people face in New Zealand.
Almost a quarter of a million Kiwis have been diagnosed with diabetes, while another 100,000 is estimated to have the disease without knowing, according to data from the Ministry of Health.
During November there are a range of campaigns and regional events happening across the country.
Diabetes NZ believes it is a good opportunity to help Kiwis to have a greater understanding of type 1 and 2 diabetes, including the symptoms and appropriate handling method.
While type 2 diabetes is affected by lifestyle and is mostly diagnosed later in life, type 1 is an autoimmune disease mostly diagnosed in childhood.
Data shows there are more than 20,000 New Zealand have type 1 diabetes including 2,500 children under 18, according to the Ministry of Health.
Diabetes NZ will release a free mobile application as part of the annual campaign, helping Kiwis to manage their health, even if they don't have diabetes.
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