Saint Lucia is grappling with a growing diabetes epidemic, with health officials sounding the alarm on the urgent need for national awareness and preventive measures. Dr. Kedhma Dorh, President of the Saint Lucia Diabetes and Hypertension Association (SLDHA), highlighted the severity of the issue, citing data from the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) that reveals 11.4% of Saint Lucian adults now live with diabetes—a significant increase from 8.4% in 2011. Dr. Dorh emphasized the rising prevalence of risk factors, particularly childhood obesity, as a major contributor to the surge in cases. The 2020 national STEPS survey further underscored the crisis, showing that 15-16% of adults have elevated blood sugar levels, indicating pre-diabetes or undiagnosed diabetes. As World Diabetes Day 2025 approaches, the SLDHA is intensifying its efforts under the global theme ‘Diabetes and Well-Being,’ with a local focus on ‘Diabetes and the Workplace.’ The association is urging employers and employees to prioritize health and wellness, recognizing the critical role workplace habits play in prevention and management. Type 2 diabetes, driven by poor diet, physical inactivity, and obesity, remains the most common form. Dr. Dorh stressed the importance of early detection and regular screening, noting that many cases go undiagnosed until complications arise. To address access gaps in rural areas, the SLDHA has launched mobile and workplace screening initiatives. The association is also advocating for stronger nutrition policies, including front-of-package warning labels on processed foods. Key preventive measures include maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular physical activity, and adopting balanced diets. The SLDHA is organizing the Diabetes Awareness 5K Walk-Run on November 16, encouraging corporate participation to promote workplace wellness. Dr. Dorh reiterated that a healthy workforce is essential for national productivity, urging Saint Lucians to take proactive steps toward better health.