BRAC Health Programme observed World Diabetes Day across the country through 450 specialised health camps, awareness-raising rallies, and discussion sessions. These initiatives were conducted in 275 upazilas with the aim of bringing diagnostic and treatment services for diabetes and other non-communicable diseases (NCDs) directly to communities.

As part of the observance, special initiatives were undertaken at NCD corners in upazila health complexes, offering free diabetes testing and raising awareness.

Over the past decade, BRAC has screened nearly 5.8 million people for NCDs, placing particular emphasis on diabetes detection and care. As a result, individuals across the country now have access to early diagnosis and treatment opportunities. To ensure universal access to diagnosis and long-term care, BRAC plans to further expand these programmes.

The prevalence of diabetes is rising rapidly in Bangladesh. In this context, early detection and regular treatment remain the most effective preventive measures. Yet, millions of people still lack access to testing and medical consultation. BRAC's community-based model delivers these services directly to people, including on-the-spot testing and guidance on adopting healthy lifestyles and seeking long-term care at government health facilities.

To support government initiatives in NCD prevention and treatment, BRAC implements these programmes in coordination with local health departments and other relevant government officials. This approach particularly benefits low-income populations in urban areas as well as rural and peri-urban communities.

As part of the World Diabetes Day activities, civil surgeons and senior officials from the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) visited the expanded NCD project jointly implemented by BRAC, the Health Directorate, and Medtronic Labs in Rangpur Division and Narayanganj. Through this initiative, patient data is linked to the NCD corners in government hospitals, ensuring follow-up and continued treatment after initial diagnosis.

"For a long time, millions of people in Bangladesh had no access to basic screening for diabetes and other NCDs. Today, we are seeing the results of early detection in communities that once had nowhere to turn. Our next priority is to ensure that screening leads to lifelong care through linked digital systems and trained community health workers," said Dr Md Akramul Islam, Senior Director of BRAC Health Programme.

"The partnership between the NCDC and BRAC demonstrates how the synergy of public-sector leadership, community outreach, and digital innovation can transform diabetes and NCD care in Bangladesh. Aligned with the theme of World Diabetes Day 2025, we are translating the principle of 'Diabetes Across Life Stages' into action-ensuring equitable, high-quality care for every individual, at every stage of life," said Professor Dr Syed Zakir Hossain, Line Director, Non-Communicable Disease Control (NCDC), Directorate General of Health Services.

Experts at a recent BRAC event highlighted that more than 70% of deaths in Bangladesh are caused by long-term NCDs. Nearly 68% of healthcare costs are borne out-of-pocket by the general population, pushing many families into poverty and leaving many without access to necessary treatment.