LIONS IN ACTION
Providing a Place for Children to Heal
The International Diabetes Federation estimates that 371 million people worldwide have diabetes, a global epidemic that is expected to affect 552 million by 2030.
People with diabetes are at risk of losing sight due to diabetic retinopathy. It is the leading cause of vision loss in adults of working age (20 to 65 years) in industrialized countries. 74% of people who have diabetes for 10 years or more will develop some form of diabetic retinopathy. All people with diabetes-both Type 1 and Type 2--are at risk. That's why everyone with diabetes should get a comprehensive dilated eye exam at least once a year.
With these statistics and concerns in mind, Lions can get involved with the Diabetes Awareness and Action Program. Our work supports diabetes awarensss, education, control, prevention and research. A screening test can detect the possibility of diabetes. Lions often arrange for diabetes screenings in their communities.
For information about planning service activity projects – including information for chairpersons – please visit the Diabetes section of our Member Center.
41,000,000
The Lions–Measles Initiative pilot program vaccinated 41 million children in Ethiopia, Madagascar, Mali and Nigeria against measles – a leading cause of childhood blindness.