World Diabetes Day: Blue lighting of the Gandhi monument at Maple Beach and free diabetes screening program
Manipal, Oct 15, 2023: In commemoration of World Diabetes Day on November 14th, the Department of Endocrinology at Kasturba Hospital, Manipal, took a symbolic step by illuminating the Gandhi monument at Maple Beach with blue lighting. This poignant gesture aims to raise awareness about diabetes, urging the public to take preventive measures and manage the condition and its complications.
The choice of blue lighting aligns with the internationally recognized blue circle symbol, chosen by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) to signify the unity required in the pursuit of a cure for diabetes. This initiative was led by the dedicated team at the Department of Endocrinology, Kasturba Hospital.
Dr. Avinash Shetty, Medical Superintendent of Kasturba Hospital, said that as part of the World Diabetes Day initiative a free diabetes screening program will be held on November 16, 2023 (Thursday)
Dr. Sahana Shetty, Professor and Head of the Department of Endocrinology, highlighted the alarming rise of type 2 diabetes in India, affecting one in every eleven individuals. She emphasized the role of adopting healthy eating habits and maintaining physical activity from a young age as effective measures for preventing type 2 diabetes. Dr. Shetty also underscored the significant impact of diabetes on heart health, kidney function, vision, nerve health, and the incidence of non-traumatic foot amputations.
Echoing the theme for this year, “Education to Protect Tomorrow,” Dr. Padmaraj Hegde, Dean of KMC Manipal, stressed the importance of education in preventing complications associated with diabetes. He emphasized the significance of a balanced diet, including fruits, vegetables, whole cereals, pulses, millets, nuts, lean meat, and low-fat dairy. Dr. Hegde also highlighted the importance of regular physical activity, maintaining glycemic control through prescribed medications, and routine monitoring of glucose levels and screenings for complications.
Dr. Avinash Shetty, Medical Superintendent of Kasturba Hospital, said that as part of the World Diabetes Day initiative a free diabetes screening program will be held on November 16, 2023 (Thursday). The program will take place near the taxi stand at Tiger Circle, Manipal, from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm, catering specifically to auto drivers, taxi drivers, bus drivers, conductors, and others.
