The International Diabetes Federation and the World Health Organization launched World Diabetes Day in 1991 in response to the alarming rise in diabetes cases worldwide. November 14 was chosen to mark the birthday of Canadian scientist Frederick Banting, co-discoverer of insulin in 1922 — a breakthrough that transformed type 1 diabetes from a fatal diagnosis into a manageable condition. The day gained official UN recognition in 2006 through General Assembly resolution 61/225, becoming the first health observance to receive such UN endorsement. It highlights diabetes symptoms and prevention, particularly type 2 diabetes linked to lifestyle factors, and calls for ensuring affordable access to care, treatment, and insulin. The day is marked worldwide by lighting landmarks in blue — its symbolic color — alongside free screening campaigns, nutrition workshops, and physical activities promoting healthy lifestyles to prevent the disease and its complications.