Mr. Speaker, November has been proclaimed Diabetes Awareness Month by the Canadian Diabetes Association.
Over one million Canadians have diabetes, with more than 13 per cent between 65 and 74 years of age. Diabetes is a major cause of premature death, blindness, kidney disease, heart disease, stroke, limb amputation and other significant health problems. It costs Canada an estimated $9 billion annually.
The Canadian Diabetes Association is a supporter of diabetes research in Canada and provides a wide range of services for and advocacy on behalf of persons with diabetes and their families.
I am proud to say that the federal government also plays an important role by supporting diabetes research and among other ventures a special initiative with regard to diabetes among Canada's native peoples.
Please join with me in wishing the Canadian Diabetes Association and its many volunteers a very successful Diabetes Awareness Month.