VICE-PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE 
 

From its humble beginnings in 1971, the Diabetic Society of Singapore has over the last three decades made much progress in creating an awareness about diabetes among Singaporeans.

 

Our reach has widened to the community via community centres, shopping malls, schools, radio and television.

 

We believe in making an impact on the lives of our members. We believe that education is the key to improving lives and saving lives.

 

We have held talks on Diabetes Mellitus, Retinopathy, Maculopathy, Nephropathy, Neuropathy and Cardiovascular Disease - disorders that affect patients with diabetes — in the hope that knowledge will bring timely interventions and therefore prevent complications.

 

World Diabetes Day, which will be celebrated on 13 November this year, is an important platform for our society to go one step further in growing our current membership of 4000.

 

This year's theme, Put Feet First, Prevent Amputations, is a stark reminder that diabetes patients must be active in caring for themselves. But that they are also not alone. Help is only a call away. Support is always at hand.

 

DSS has opened two more Education Centres, one at Sembawang Hong Kah and another at Boon Keng. Testing of blood sugar, cholesterol, eyes, micro-albuminuria (urine), HbA1c and urine ketone are offered at an affordable fee. Our services also include group counselling, group education, podiatry and dietary services. DSS has complemented the services of General Practitioners who have referred their patients to DSS for financial assistance as well as to buy subsidised non-standard items.

 

Our efforts have been recognised by International Diabetes Federation (IDF). DSS is currently under the Western Pacific Region of the IDF. Supported by health professionals, such as doctors, nurses, passionate volunteers, and generous donors who rally around us at every turn, DSS aims to continue serving the community, to help those who have diabetes or are caring for one with diabetes to stand on their own two feet.

 

Hj RM. Mohd Moideen PBS

Vice-President, DSS.