Abbott’s Campaign Empowers Malaysians with Diabetes to Take Control of Their Health

November marks the Diabetes Awareness Month. In conjunction with this, Abbott announced the launch of the Glucerna® #StartsWithYou campaign to encourage Malaysians to take control of their Diabetes condition and live well.

(L to R) Dr. Nina Mazera Mohd Said, Abbott’s Nutrition Medical Director in Malaysia; Ainaa Munirah Pang, Glucerna Lifestyle Change Program (GLCP) participant; Dr. Zanariah Hussein, Head of the Endocrine Unit at Putrajaya Hospital and Indra Balaratnam, Consultant Dietitian advocating diabetes education at the launch of the Glucerna #StartsWithYou campaign launch. 

The campaign highlights success stories of Malaysians who took part in a four-week lifestyle intervention program incorporating good nutrition and physical exercise. In promoting these stories and inviting people to share their journey with diabetes management, Abbott aims to empower people with diabetes to live fuller, healthier lives.

According to the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS), there is an estimated 3.6 million Malaysians – or 15.6% of the adult population – living with diabetes, and there are many more who are unaware of their diabetic state. Uncontrolled diabetes can impact overall health. It can cause complications like heart disease, nerve or kidney damage. Small lifestyle modifications can make a big impact on diabetes management and overall health.

Dr. Nina and Ainaa sharing more about the awareness and management of diabetes. 

''The prevalence of diabetes remains high in Malaysia, so it’s important to help individuals adopt healthy habits and strategies to manage their condition,'' said Dr. Nina Mazera Mohd Said, Abbott’s nutrition medical director in Malaysia during the recent event. ''The Glucerna® Lifestyle Change Program has supported many people with diabetes manage their glucose levels through positive lifestyle changes including good nutrition and exercise. Today, we are happy to showcase some success stories to empower more Malaysians with diabetes to build healthy habits.''

Taking Control of Diabetes Starts with You and the Support of Others

At the event, Ainaa Munirah Pang, a 39-year-old chef, shared her journey in achieving her target glucose levels with the help of the Glucerna® Lifestyle Change Program (GLCP). Diagnosed with type 2 diabetes at the age of 27, Ainaa faced the challenge of adhering to a healthy and consistent regime, especially being surrounded by sweet temptations at her job.

The four-week lifestyle intervention program helped guide her on a path to better health. She received support from like-minded participants who shared common goals, challenges and resources to help manage their diabetes.

Insights on diabetes management and inspiring success stories were presented at the Glucerna #StartsWithYou campaign.

''Joining the program was life-changing,'' said Ainaa. ''It wasn’t just about controlling my glucose level but also about finding a community of support and making small changes that added up to a big difference.''
The GLCP, which started in 2021, includes a guide on diabetes management and information on balanced diet, diabetes-specific nutrition formula, exercise and the importance of regular glucose monitoring. Participants also learn how to cope with diabetes burnout and other challenges that can derail their commitment to diabetes care. In addition, they receive support from a group of trained doctors and dietitians, and like-minded participants who share common goals, challenges and resources to help them better manage their condition. More than 200 adults in Malaysia have participated in the program and have improved their diabetes.

Consultant Dietitian, Indra Balaratnam shared nutrition tips and demonstrated nutritious recipes to help Malaysians live healthier. 

"Most Malaysians living with diabetes have obesity or overweighti, so structured lifestyle interventions, nutritional management, and a robust support system can help improve their weight and condition," said Dr. Zanariah Hussein, head of the endocrine unit at Putrajaya Hospital. ''These comprehensive approaches – which are included in the GLCP – enables adults to take charge of their health, leading to better outcomes and quality of life.''

''While there are many factors in managing diabetes, nutrition remains critical,'' said Indra Balaratnam, a consultant dietitian. ''Individuals with diabetes need to be aware of their eating habits and make informed choices that incorporate a variety of foods in moderation. Whether through meal planning, smart snacking, or cooking at home with natural ingredients, it’s important to follow a balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains and lean proteins.''

How Diabetes-Specific Nutrition Formula Can Help

Glucerna®, a scientifically-formulated diabetes-specific nutrition formula, is integral to the GLCP approach. Clinical studies have demonstrated that Glucerna® effectively manages blood glucose levels by providing a steady release of glucose. Research published in Diabetes Care found that individuals with diabetes who consumed Glucerna® maintained glucose levels within the target range up to 90% of the time after just four weeks.ii Glucerna’s unique formulation includes low glycaemic index carbohydrates, which help minimise post-meal spikes, alongside essential nutrients that support overall health.

The Glucerna® #StartsWithYou campaign encourages everyone to share their personal journey with diabetes management. Participants who send in their stories to the Abbott Nutrition Careline (wecare@abbott.com) will receive a Glucerna® Wellness Pack.

For more information on the Glucerna® #StartsWithYou campaign, please visit https://www.family.abbott/my-en/home.html or follow us on social media.

i Ministry of Health Malaysia. (2023). National Diabetes Registry Report 2023.
ii Klein, S., et al. (2013). Effect of a new nutritional formula on glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes: A randomized controlled trial. Diabetes Care, 36(2), 271-277. doi:10.2337/dc12-0396.