Mahsi, Madam Speaker. Madam Speaker, Bill C237, An Act to Establish a National Framework for Diabetes, received royal assent on June 29, 2021, in parliament. In response to this Act, the Government of Canada just recently released a framework for diabetes. The report recognizes diabetes is one of the most common chronic diseases affecting people living in Canada. Rates of diabetes is rising around the world. People with diabetes increased the risk of severe outcomes through COVID19.
We know in the NWT that 10 percent of people in the NWT over 24 years of age are diagnosed with diabetes, and that the rate of diabetes grows with age and is more prevalent in the regional communities. We also know that our population is aging in the NWT and chronic diseases are projected to rise. What we don't know, Madam Speaker, is how many people are living undiagnosed with diabetes in the NWT.
The health minister herself said in the House, December 2021, for people who need diabetic care it really starts with the diagnosis of diabetes. Madam Speaker, for people living with diabetes undiagnosed, the symptoms may not be that obvious but the consequences of living undiagnosed with diabetes can result in lifethreatening complications.
We also know, Madam Speaker, the NWT has a high rate of ambulatory care and that hospitalizations for some chronic conditions could have likely been prevented through better chronic disease management and better access to primary care. Diabetes is a national concern, and it should be a concern for the NWT as well.
What is the GNWT doing to really address the root causes of diabetes and take action that supports the lives of people in small communities? I will have questions for the Minister of Health and Social Services later today. Mahsi.
Thank you. Members' statements. Member for Nahendeh.
