The Malta Pharmaceutical Students’ Association (MPSA) recently held a public awareness campaign on diabetes, which is one of the most common diseases among the Maltese.

The Diabetes Day celebrations began last Tuesday near the University’s Pharmacy Department on campus. Members of the MPSA, with the support of the Malta Medical Students’ Association (MMSA), invited students to dress in blue and to form part of a human circle – the World Diabetes Day international symbol.

This event was followed by more activities yesterday, when MPSA shifted its campaign from campus to Buġibba. The public was invited to take part in a walking/running event whose purpose was to raise awareness about the importance of exercise as an integral part of one’s lifestyle.

The public also had the opportunity to test their blood glucose level, calculate their Body Mass Index and receive information about diabetes and individual lifestyle approaches.

Meanwhile, the MMSA yesterday held activities at Bay Street, St Julian’s, in order to raise public awareness on diabetes. Members of the association handed out leaflets with information on the condition and gave people advice on how to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Water and healthy refreshments were also available from an MMSA stand.