For most people, World Diabetes Day passed on Wednesday with not much more than a bat of the eye. It was a normal Wednesday.

But millions of people around the world have diabetes, and it’s a life-threatening illness that is growing, so it is appropriate for folks to sit up and pay attention.

World Diabetes Day, and events where diabetics can share their stories, are meant to bring more attention to the disease and spread awareness of the warning signs, so that more people can be diagnosed early and avoid complications.

The tell-tale signs include thirst and frequent urination, as well as extreme hunger, fatigue, blurry vision and weight loss.

Talk to your doctor right away if you suspect you may have diabetes or are at risk for it.

For more information about diabetes, visit www.worlddiabetesday.org.