On Friday 14 November 2025, Luxembourg will mark World Diabetes Day, an annual event initiated by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and the World Health Organization (WHO) to raise awareness about the risks and impact of this chronic disease.

For the 2024 - 2026 period, the IDF has chosen the theme “Diabetes and Wellbeing”. This year’s focus, “Wellbeing at Work,” aims to highlight the importance of maintaining a fulfilling professional life for people living with diabetes.

According to the Ministry of Health and Social Security, around 70% of people with diabetes worldwide are in employment, underlining the relevance of this year’s theme. In Luxembourg, a 2025 survey found that 63% of people living with diabetes said that the fear of complications affects their wellbeing, while 28% reported finding it difficult to stay positive about their condition.

There are several forms of diabetes. Type 1 diabetes, which accounts for 5% to 10% of cases, often develops rapidly in children, adolescents or young adults and requires insulin treatment from diagnosis. Type 2 diabetes, representing about 90% of cases, develops more gradually and can remain undetected for a long time. Its risk factors include diet, physical activity, weight and lifestyle habits.

As part of World Diabetes Day, the Health Directorate, the Luxembourg Pharmacists’ Association (SPL) and the Luxembourg Diabetes Association (ALD) have announced several awareness initiatives.

A screening and awareness campaign on the risk of Type 2 diabetes will be held in 55 pharmacies across the country from Wednesday 12 to Saturday 22 November 2025, allowing members of the public to assess their risk, ask questions and receive personalised advice. In 2024, more than 1,200 people took part in the campaign.

On Thursday 13 November, a conference and exhibition on workplace wellbeing will be held from 18:00 to 20:30 at Hotel Parc Belle-Vue in Luxembourg-Ville, focusing on creating supportive work environments for people living with diabetes.

As part of the programme, the traditional “10,000 Steps Walk” took place on Saturday 8 November in Dudelange, promoting both physical activity and social interaction.

Further information about World Diabetes Day activities is available on www.santesecu.lu (in the “agenda” and “diabetes” sections), as well as on www.ald.lu, www.diabete.lu and www.pharmacie.lu.

EO