—-Dr. Hawa Koon Encourages Liberians, “Diabetes Is Not a Death Sentence”
IPNEWS: The John F. Kennedy Medical Center (JFK), in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and several national and international partners, on Saturday, November 15, 2025
Joined the global community in celebrating World Diabetes Day, placing a spotlight on early detection, treatment awareness, and overall wellness for people living with diabetes in Liberia.
The colorful event, held at Park on PHP in Monrovia, brought together health workers, government officials, civil society actors, and community members for a day of education, screening, and empowerment.
Speaking at the celebration, Dr. Hawa Koon, a distinguished diabetes consultant and pediatric endocrinologist at JFK Medical Center, underscored that “diabetes is not a death sentence”.
She encouraged Liberians to take charge of their health through regular medical check-ups, medication adherence, and healthy lifestyle choices.
This year’s observance was marked under the global theme, “Diabetes and Well-being,” with a unique focus on Liberia’s sub-theme: “Ensuring Emotional and Mental Well-Being for Children and Families Living with Type 1 Diabetes.”
Dr. Koon also a medical school instructor, faculty lead for Liberia’s only high-fidelity medical simulation center, and a Fellow of the West African College of Physicians emphasized the need for consistent treatment routines.
She stressed that failure to manage diabetes properly could lead to severe long-term complications.
Importantly, Dr. Koon urged parents to remain vigilant about their children’s health. She warned that frequent nighttime urination in children should not be overlooked, as it may be an early indication of Type 1 diabetes.
“A child does not suddenly begin to urinate uncontrollably overnight. Parents must monitor such signs and seek early medical advice,” she cautioned.
The day’s events featured free diabetes screening, community health awareness, wellness education, and on-the-spot counseling provided by doctors, nurses, and other health professionals.
Both children and adults received free testing and treatment as part of JFK’s continued commitment to expanding access to diabetes care.
Patients living with diabetes also shared their personal journeys describing the support, treatment, and lifestyle adjustments that have helped them manage the condition successfully from the earliest stages.
Health partners praised JFK and the Ministry of Health for their unwavering leadership in advancing diabetes care nationwide and strengthening Liberia’s broader public health system.
The observance reaffirmed Liberia’s dedication to fighting diabetes through education, early testing, and compassionate clinical support ensuring that more families can live healthier and more informed lives.
