This specific article is geared toward the main diabetes symbol.  As such things have become ever-so-popular in this day and age over the last decade or so, symbols bring awareness and personal support to the increased tribulations faced by the global community.  Diabetes is one among hundreds.  As a Global Diabetes Awareness Advocate, I hope to refresh your memories in telling you that November is the International Diabetes Awareness Month. 

“The blue circle is the universal symbol for diabetes.  Until 2006, there was no global symbol for diabetes.  The purpose of the symbol is to give diabetes a common identity.  It aims to:

• Support all existing efforts to raise awareness about diabetes;
• Inspire new activities, bring diabetes to the attention of the general public;
• Brand diabetes; and
• Provide a means to show support for the fight against diabetes.

“What is the History of the blue circle?

“The icon was originally developed for the campaign that resulted in the passage of United Nations Resolution 61/225 “World Diabetes Day.”

“The campaign for a United Nations Resolution on diabetes was a response to the diabetes pandemic that is set to overwhelm healthcare resources everywhere.  The campaign mobilized diabetes stakeholders behind the common cause of securing a United Nations Resolution on diabetes. The united Nations passed Resolution 61/225 ‘World Diabetes Day’ on December 20, 2006.

“Why a circle?

The circle occurs frequently in nature and has thus been widely employed since the dawn of humankind.  The significance is overwhelmingly positive.  Across cultures, the circle can symbolize life and health.  Most significantly for the campaign, the circle symbolizes unity.  Our combined strength is the key element that made this support a United Nations Resolution on diabetes and needs to remain united to make a difference.  As we all know: to do nothing is no longer an option.

“Why blue?

“The blue border of the circle reflects the color of the sky and the flag of the United Nations.  The United Nations is in itself a symbol of unity amongst nations and is the only organization that can signal to governments everywhere that it is time to fight diabetes and reverse the global trends that will impede economic development and cause so much suffering and premature death.

“Who owns the symbol?

“The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) holds all rights to the blue circle for diabetes.”

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_awareness_ribbons

Knowledge is power!  Just sayin”…and passing some along to you.

A. K. Buckroth (#buckroth)