Onlykashmir.in News Desk
Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS), Soura, observed World Diabetes Day on Saturday by organising an awareness programme to educate patients, their families and the general public about diabetes prevention and effective management.
The programme was organised by the Faculty of Endocrinology in collaboration with other departments of the institute. Around 300 people, including patients, family members, students, teachers and members of the public, took part.
The programme focused on preventing the complications of diabetes, including kidney disease, eye problems, nerve damage and heart disease. Awareness lectures were delivered on prevention and on managing associated complications.
A screening camp was also held, in which blood glucose, lipid profile and HbA1c tests were conducted. Around 350 diabetes patients underwent screening.
Prof. Riaz Ahmad Misger said World Diabetes Day is observed every year on November 14 to mark the birth anniversary of Sir Frederick Banting, who discovered insulin along with Charles Best. He stressed the importance of public awareness, early screening and preventive measures to reduce the complications associated with the disease.
Diabetes is among the fastest-growing public health concerns in India, and a large number of people are unaware that they have it until complications develop. The tests conducted at the camp serve different purposes. Blood glucose shows the sugar level at the time of testing, the HbA1c test reflects the average level over the previous two to three months, and the lipid profile measures cholesterol and fats that raise the risk of heart disease. Together they give doctors a broader picture of how well the condition is being managed.
The complications highlighted at the programme, namely kidney disease, eye problems, nerve damage and heart disease, are the main reasons why regular monitoring is advised. Uncontrolled blood sugar over years can damage the small blood vessels in the eyes and kidneys and the nerves in the limbs, and it increases the risk of heart attack and stroke. Early detection and timely treatment can delay or prevent many of these problems.
Doctors generally advise people with diabetes to follow a balanced diet, remain physically active, take medicines regularly and go for periodic check-ups, while those at risk because of age, weight or family history are encouraged to get screened. Public awareness events at hospitals offer a chance to reach families who may not otherwise seek advice until symptoms appear.
The statement did not give the results of the screening, such as how many patients were found to have poorly controlled blood sugar. SKIMS is expected to continue awareness activities through the year, and patients have been encouraged to consult their doctors regularly.
