Each year World Diabetes Day is centred on a theme related to diabetes. Topics covered in the past have included diabetes and human rights, diabetes and lifestyle, and the costs of diabetes. Since 2001 particular attention has been paid to diabetes complications affecting the heart, the eyes and the kidneys. Past, present and future themes include:

• 2007: Diabetes in Children and Adolescents
• 2006: Diabetes and the Disadvantaged and Vulnerable
• 2005: Diabetes and Foot Care
• 2004: Diabetes and Obesity
• 2003: Diabetes and Kidneys
• 2002: Your Eyes and Diabetes
• 2001: Diabetes and Cardiovascular Disease
• 2000: Diabetes and Lifestyle in the New Millennium
• 1999: The Costs of Diabetes
• 1998: Diabetes and Human Rights
• 1997: Global Awareness: Our Key to a Better Life
• 1996: Insulin for Life!
• 1995: The Price of Ignorance
• 1994: Diabetes and Growing Older
• 1993: Growing Up with Diabetes
• 1992: Diabetes: A Problem of All Ages in All Countries
• 1991: Diabetes Goes Public

IDF produces a variety of support materials for its member associations who in turn distribute them to people with diabetes and their families, the general public, healthcare professionals, the media, as well as local and national decision makers. Member associations use the materials to complement their own awareness-raising initiatives and develop a World Diabetes Day campaign that best meets the needs of their respective communities. IDF material is also sent, on request, to other like-minded associations, hospitals and clinics, healthcare professionals, and individuals with an interest in diabetes. World Diabetes Day unites the international diabetes community to produce a powerful global voice for diabetes awareness.
Full details at the World Diabetes Day website.