STO. TOMAS, Pampanga – In observance of World Diabetes Day, the Rotary Club of Dolores and the JBL Memorial General Hospital–Ambulatory Surgical and Multispecialty Center–Bagong Urgent Care and Ambulatory Service (JASMC-BUCAS) sponsored a diabetes awareness and screening activity here on Nov. 14., marking the third consecutive year of their partnership in the community health project.
Free blood sugar tests were offered to community members. Health workers and volunteers guided participants through the screening process, making the activity accessible and welcoming.
A total of 150 patients were screened with those found with high blood sugar readings given diagnostic requests for further evaluation.
A lay forum followed the screenings with three doctors as resources persons: Dr. Lady Karina Castro discussed “Diabetes Awareness” and explained the basics of the disease; Dr. Yasmin Barrameda spoke on “Diabetes Prevention,” sharing practical steps like healthy eating and regular exercise; and Dr. Bryan Lagman presented “Diabetic Retinopathy,” stressing how diabetes can affect vision and the need for routine eye checks.
Snacks and various freebies were distributed to encourage participation and keep the atmosphere lively.
Diabetes remains a major public health concern in the Philippines. According to the International Diabetes Federation, around 7.5% of Filipino adults—about 4.7 million people—are living with diabetes. Many cases remain undiagnosed, leading to serious complications such as heart disease, nerve injury, kidney damage, and vision loss.
Early screening plays a crucial role. Detecting elevated blood sugar levels early allows timely lifestyle changes or treatment. Philippine guidelines recommend testing adults aged 40 and above and younger individuals with risk factors.
Present from the Rotary Club of Dolores were president Albert Lacanlale, immediate past president Maureen Gueco, past district governor Emil Joven, past presidents Jong Galang, Dennis Sanchez, and Alex Aquino, and Rotarian Dr. Alexa Galang.
Press release
