About
The Bahamas Diabetic Association (BDA) was established in March 1986. It’s founding was the result of the hard work and unwavering efforts of Mrs. Diana Pinder and Mrs. Ethel Knowles, whose daughters developed diabetes at the age of seven.
The first meeting was held in Mrs. Pinder’s backyard with a few people interested in helping each other learn more on diabetes. Dr. Cecile Bethel was one of the attendees at that first meeting and carried the vision beyond the establishment of a support group, drafting a constitution that established the BDA.
The mission of BDA is to educate, counsel, support, and advocate for individuals at risk of developing diabetes and those already living with the condition.
Activities
As a part of the BDA’s efforts to educate the public about diabetes, a monthly meeting along with a bi-monthly newsletter is produced and circulated throughout the Bahamas to various medical clinics.
Message from the President
The Bahamas Diabetes Association is honoured to be a member of the International Diabetes Federation (IDF). It is my hope that, through our collaborative efforts, we will gain the knowledge, resources, and support necessary to improve the health and well-being of people living with diabetes, both in The Bahamas and around the world.
My role as President comes with many responsibilities, but it is also a great privilege. The burden of non-communicable diseases in The Bahamas is high, with diabetes ranking as the fifth leading cause of death. As a nurse and a member of the Ministry of Health & Wellness Healthy Bahamas Coalition, where I serve as the Lead for Diabetes, I have made it my personal mission to help reduce the impact of diabetes in our country.
Education is key to helping people understand and manage their condition. Therefore, the mission of the Bahamas Diabetes Association is to educate, counsel, support, and advocate for individuals at risk of developing diabetes and for those already living with the condition.
We look forward to working together with IDF, learning from one another, and making a meaningful difference in the lives of people living with diabetes.