Angle Lee, Diabetes Nurse Educator, South-West Diabetes Education and Care Centre, Diabetic Society of Singapore, returns from the 19th World Diabetes Congress held South Africa between 3 and 7 December 2006 with a glowing report.

We were very fortunate to be given a chance to attend the 19th World Diabetes Congress in Cape Town organised by International Diabetes Federation (IDF). Diabetic Society of Singapore (DSS) has been the elected Secretariat of IDF for the Western Pacific region (which covers Singapore, Indonesia, China, Philippines, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Vietnam and Myanmar) since 1999.

The event, which attracted international expertise in diabetes, provided a splendid platform for discussion of the latest scientific advances in the field. We learned much from the practical information on diabetes care, advocacy and awareness too.

DSS was proud to represent Singapore in the Global Village, a segment of the 19th World Diabetes Congress dedicated to the many IDF Member Associations. Our society stood alongside 106 other member associations to showcase DSS activities as well as exchange ideas and best practices with the other delegates.

I was tasked to deliver two poster presentations: Public Awareness of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus - Modifiable and Non-modifiable Risk Factors and Stress - A Neglected Aspect of Diabetes Care in Singapore (prepared by Kelly Loh).

We also highlighted our DOT (Deliver on Target) programme, a partnership between DSS and General Practitioners to give diabetes patients the best treatment and care.

Cape Town itself was charming with its rich cultural heritage. The beauty of its coast lines and the breathtaking views of Tables Mountain made our stay even more memorable. But the most attractive feature of the city must certainly be the boundless energy and enthusiasm of its people. They were the ones who captured our hearts.