B. Braun joined the global effort to fight diabetes by focusing on educating visitors and creating awareness on this disease at the 5th Penang International Science Fair (PISF) on 12 and 13 November 2016 at the SPICE Arena in Bayan Lepas. Ms Anna Maria Braun, President of B. Braun Asia Pacific, participated in the opening ceremony officiated by the Honourable Mr Lim Guan Eng, Chief Minister of Penang.

As the Pillar Lead for Life Sciences and Medical Health, B. Braun’s booth was a major attraction with its prominent location and informative displays, as well as appearances by the Beat Diabetes Superhero.  The theme ‘Beat Diabetes’ was a logical choice as November 14 has been designated as World Diabetes Day, and ‘Prevent, Treat & Beat Diabetes’ was also the theme for the World Health Organisation’s annual World Health Day in April this year. 

Over 70 B. Braun employees eagerly volunteered for the event and helped to man both exhibits and the children’s activity. The exhibition educated visitors about the rising incidence of diabetes in Malaysia, its causes, symptom and effects,  as well as good habits to adopt to prevent diabetes. Volunteers also shared B. Braun’s diabetic care products such as the Omnitest® 3, pen needles and insulin syringes to visitors.  Nurses from local hospitals were on-hand to administer free blood glucose tests. 

Children were taught how to identify the amount of sugar in common snacks and drinks, in order to avoid high sugar foods. To reinforce what they have learned during the activity, participants were given an apple and a ruler with the ‘Beat Diabetes’ message to remind them about choosing healthy snacks over sugary options.

B. Braun has been a strong supporter of PISFs since 2011, playing both roles as major exhibitor and sponsor. The PISF is part of a campaign by the Penang Science Cluster to spark interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics among local children and youths.