by Jannice Carrasco, for KUAM News

Guam leaders and medical facilities gathered together Friday for a proclamation signing declaring October as National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week and November as Diabetes Awareness Month highlighting prevention, awareness, and healthier choices.

Director of Public Health Peter John Camacho emphasized the importance of preventing Type 2 Diabetes and taking proactive steps to maintain health. He also added “an ounce of prevention is definitely worth the pound of cure.”

President of the Guam Diabetes Association Scott Duenas highlighted rising diabetes rates on the island. He said, "According to Center of Diabetes Prevention and Control, Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System and now survey at Guam Office of Final Statistics of 2023, the top ten cause of death, diabetes is eighth leading cause of death on Guam. With the equivalence rate of 16.4% ,approximately 39% higher than the US average of 11.8%."

Also recognized during the proclamation was National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week. Camacho emphasized that lead poisoning is one of the most preventable environmental health threats facing children today.

He underscored that health and future of our children depend on the choices we make today, saying, "Today we proclaim October 19 to the 25th 2025 as National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week. It is a time for us to come together as a community to raise awareness, strengthen partnerships, and renew our commitment to protecting our island’s children from the dangers of lead exposure."

As Guam observes Diabetes Awareness Month and Lead Poisoning Prevention Week, island leaders hope these efforts inspire families to make healthier, safer choices every day.