Did you know that the Philippines is now a diabetes hotspot? That 7.2 percent of the population is suffering with the disease? That everyday, 500 Filipinos are being added to the demography? That it is now the 4th leading cause of death in the Philippines?

Diabetes is a serious, chronic metabolic disease characterized by an increase in blood sugar levels associated with long term damage and failure of organ functions, especially the eyes, the kidneys, the nerves, the heart and blood vessels. It can be managed but the potential complications are heart attack, stroke, kidney disease, limb amputation, depression, anxiety and blindness.

Last May 16, the Philippine Society of Pediatric Matabolism and Endocrinology Camp (PSPME), Dialysis PH, Diabetes Association of Camp Crame, and 100 diabetic kids from the patient support groups Rainbow Camp gathered at SM Megamall’s Event Center for a health and wellness fair that will help people become more aware about diabetes.

A series of activities and presentations from health, fitness and nutrition partners were held to create awareness on the effective ways to fight diabetes and to correct misconceptions surrounding it. A free blood test and counseling were also held so spectators will know if they are at high risk of acquiring the disease.

Here are some photos from the event: