Healthy choices start young: City Health highlights growing diabetes risk
13 November 2025
City Health is enthused by the ongoing increase in the number of persons screening for diabetes; but the challenge this World Diabetes Day is to have that go hand in hand with healthier choices – especially among younger people.
Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects millions of South Africans and is the second leading cause of death in the country, behind Tuberculosis.
Historically, it is associated with older persons, but recent trends show that Type 2 Diabetes is starting to affect younger persons.
‘More and more people in their 20s are diagnosed with diabetes and the cause is often the choices they made as teenagers. Healthy food choices and regular physical activity can greatly reduce the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. You’re not too young to start making better choices for your health,’ said Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Francine Higham.
In the past financial year, the number of diabetes screenings at City clinics in the 18 to 44 age group rose by just more than 4% to 132 518, with 425 new diabetes clients.
The theme this World Diabetes Day is ‘Diabetes and the Workplace’, emphasising that with appropriate access to care, education, and support, everyone living with diabetes can live well and thrive — at home, in their communities, and at work.
Diabetes affects all ages – your daily choice matters
Diabetes occurs when the body cannot properly regulate blood sugar levels, leading to serious health complications if left unmanaged.
The choices you make at different stages of life play a key role in our long-term health:
- Youth: Choose water over sugary drinks, eat fruits and vegetables, consume a high fibre diet and staying active can build lifelong healthy habits.
- Adults: Manage stress, avoid excessive fast food, and balanced meals help maintain a healthy weight and prevent chronic diseases.
- Older age: Continue to eat balanced meals and stay active as it supports blood sugar control and overall vitality.
City Health Clinics continue to promote balanced eating, regular screening, and early detection, reminding residents that prevention starts with everyday decisions — one meal and one step at a time.
Diabetes can affect anyone, and workplaces play a crucial role in supporting employees’ health.
Employers can:
- Create a supportive work environment that promotes physical activity and access to healthy meals.
- Encourage regular health screenings and wellness days.
- Ensure staff have access to mental health support as part of a healthy, productive workplace
‘With the right support, information, and understanding, people with diabetes can lead full, active lives. By raising awareness at home and in the workplace, we can help prevent new cases and ensure that those living with diabetes receive the care and respect they deserve,’ added Councillor Higham.
This World Diabetes Day, City Health calls on all residents to make one small healthy change — whether that’s taking a walk, swapping a sugary drink for water, or packing a balanced lunch.
Together, these small steps can lead to a healthier, more resilient Cape Town.
As part of the global awareness campaign, the City encourages all residents, staff, and partners to show their support by wearing blue on the day and sharing their messages online using #WearBlueforDiabetes, recognising the growing impact of diabetes in our society.
For more information, visit your nearest City Health clinic.
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Published by:
City of Cape Town, Media Office
