COIMBATORE, INDIA, November 15, 2011 (The Hindu): When queried, most people seemed to be aware of the genetic factors and common symptoms of diabetes, but very few had a clear understanding of its types, risks, complications and the need for screening and early detection.
As many as 300 people took part in the cycle rally and road show, conducted as part of the campaign to create awareness on diabetes. Around 75 patients from the Coimbatore Diabetes Foundation and 200 students from Sri Shakthi Institute of Engineering and Technology, took part in the rally.
According to Dr. Sekar, founder and chief consultant diabetologist at the Coimbatore Diabetes Foundation, from 2009 to 2013 World Diabetes Day has been centered on the theme ‘Diabetes Education and Prevention’. Unhealthy diet was one major cause of the disorder. People focused on reducing the quantity of food but were unaware of the caloric value of food items they consumed. “That was why we decided to focus on creating awareness among the public about this”, he said.
Around 16-18 per cent of the population in the city suffered from diabetes, Dr. Sekhar said and added that modification in lifestyle was the best way to fight it. Walking 5 km a day and a healthy diet would keep diseases away. A yearly check-up to detect blood sugar and cholesterol levels, blood pressure and body weight is important, Dr. Sekar said.