About
The Diabetes Association of Jamaica (DAJ) was founded in 1976 by the Lions Club of Kingston & St. Andrew, Jamaica. It functions through the work of volunteers and has been providing diabetes care for a wide cross section of the society since its inception. The team consists of endocrinologists, ophthalmologists, general practitioners, nutritionists, psychologists, chiropodists, education officers and medical technicians.
The vision of DAJ is to be a world class organisation that provides comprehensive diabetes care for all Jamaicans to enhance their quality of life.
The mission of DAJ is to provide evidenced-based education, training, treatment and research in diabetes management.
Main Focus
- To generate public interest in recognising the common diabetes risk factors and by so doing respond with the right intervention through screening.
- To help advocate for collaboration with the rest of civil society and government for policies and strategies targeted at preventing, controlling and managing diabetes.
- To improve the quality of life of those who live with or are at risk of diabetes.
- To act as the coordinator of activities and education that will lead to protecting youth living with diabetes.
Activities
- Medical clinics
- Outreach (screening)
- Diabetes education
- Dietary counselling
- Kidney dialysis
- Foot care
- Life for a Child programme
- Research activities
- Annual international diabetes conferences in collaboration with The University of the West Indies Diabetes Outreach Programme (UDOP)
Message from the President
“The Diabetes Association of Jamaica is just a link with a long chain of collaborators of which the International Diabetes Federation is a key player. Since 1991 we have worked closely with IDF to align with their vision, mission, values and objectives, and as the leader of the team I intend to strengthen this relationship.”