Srinagar, Nov 14 (KNS): Medical experts at Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar on Saturday warned that diabetes was emerging as a major public health challenge and called for early detection, regular screening and lifestyle changes to prevent serious complications affecting the heart, kidneys, eyes and nerves.

The experts were speaking during a series of awareness and screening programmes organised by the Department of Endocrinology, GMC Srinagar, in collaboration with Super Speciality Hospital (SSH), to mark World Diabetes Day under the theme "Early Action on Diabetes."

Addressing the gathering, Principal and Dean GMC Srinagar, Prof Dr Iffat Hassan, said diabetes was among the fastest-growing public health concerns and stressed that prevention through healthy lifestyle choices remained one of the most effective ways to reduce its burden.

She said early diagnosis, regular screening and timely treatment were essential to prevent complications associated with the disease.

Prof Hassan urged people to adopt balanced eating habits, maintain a healthy body weight, avoid tobacco and engage in at least 30 minutes of physical activity daily.

She said such measures could significantly reduce the risk of diabetes and related cardiovascular, kidney and eye complications.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof Dr Mohammad Hayat Bhat, Head of the Department of Endocrinology, advised adults to undergo blood sugar screening at least once, while those with risk factors should get tested regularly.

He identified family history of diabetes, obesity, hypertension, a sedentary lifestyle and a history of gestational diabetes as important risk factors requiring greater attention.

"Uncontrolled diabetes can silently damage the heart, kidneys, eyes and nerves," he cautioned, stressing that early detection and proper management were necessary to avoid long-term health complications.

Prof Bhat said maintaining blood sugar levels within the recommended range, following a balanced diet, exercising regularly and adhering to prescribed treatment were essential for people living with diabetes.

Masarat Hashim, Administrator, Associated Hospitals, GMC Srinagar, appreciated the department's efforts to raise awareness about diabetes and assured continued administrative and logistical support for public health initiatives.

He urged people to take greater responsibility for their health by undergoing regular check-ups, following healthy lifestyle practices and seeking timely medical consultation.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

Dr Shahnaz, Associate Professor, Department of Endocrinology, highlighted the importance of public awareness and community participation in preventing and managing diabetes.

She said greater involvement of students, healthcare workers and the general public could help spread awareness about the importance of early screening and healthy living.

As part of the observance, the department organised the third edition of the Diabetes Run, which was flagged off at 7:30 am from Nishat Garden Gate to Duck Park and back.

More than 300 participants, including doctors, faculty members, nursing staff, postgraduate residents, interns, MBBS students and members of the general public, took part in the event.

The run was organised to encourage physical activity and highlight its importance in reducing the risk of diabetes and other lifestyle-related diseases.

Winners in the men's and women's categories were felicitated during the programme.

A free diabetes screening and patient education camp was also organised on the lawns of Super Speciality Hospital, where more than 500 people underwent screening.

During the camp, participants received blood glucose testing, risk assessment and counselling on healthy nutrition, physical activity, foot care, medication adherence and lifestyle modification.

An exclusive screening facility was also arranged for faculty members.

The department also organised an interactive session for children living with Type 1 diabetes, providing education, counselling and support to the children and their parents.

The session focused on improving awareness about diabetes management and helping families understand the importance of regular monitoring and appropriate treatment.

Heads of Departments, faculty members, the Medical Superintendent of Super Speciality Hospital, consultants, senior and junior residents, postgraduate trainees, interns, MBBS students and paramedical staff participated in the programmes.

The Department of Endocrinology reiterated its commitment to strengthening diabetes awareness, preventive healthcare and early diagnosis through regular screening and community outreach initiatives.

The experts urged the public not to ignore the risk factors associated with diabetes and to seek timely medical advice, saying early intervention could help prevent complications and improve quality of life. (KNS)