Manipal: Educational Program for Young Diabetics organized at Kasturba Hospital
Manipal, January 6, 2025: The Department of Medicine, Kasturba Medical College (KMC) & Hospital, Manipal, in association with the Department of Pediatrics & Pediatric Endocrinology Clinic, organized a one-day educational program for young diabetics under the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)-funded Young Diabetes Registry (YDR) Phase III initiative.
The event, designed for young diabetics aged 2 to 25 years, brought together patients and their caretakers for a day of health education and wellness activities. Free fasting blood sugar (FBS) and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) tests were conducted, alongside measurements of anthropometric and vital parameters.
The program began with inaugural addresses by Dr. Shivashankara K.N., Professor of Medicine and YDR Phase III in-charge, and Dr. Leslie Edward Lewis, Professor and Head of the Department of Pediatrics, KMC, Manipal. Dr. Koushik Urala H., Associate Professor and Pediatric Endocrinologist, provided an overview of the program.
Dr. Avinash Shetty, Medical Superintendent of Kasturba Hospital, Manipal, served as the chief guest for the valedictory session, emphasizing the importance of early education and proactive management for young diabetics. “Awareness and consistent support are essential to improving long-term health outcomes,” he remarked. Dr. S.S. Prasad, Associate Dean of KMC, also addressed the audience, applauding the initiative’s comprehensive approach to addressing the challenges faced by young diabetics.
The day featured educational and practice sessions led by various departments, including Yoga, Clinical Nutrition & Dietetics, Physiotherapy, Psychiatry, and Ophthalmology. Highlights included:
- Free yoga consultations and demonstrations by the Yoga Centre for Integrative Medicine & Research, MAHE.
- Diet demonstrations for every meal, providing scientific nutritional insights.
- Awareness sessions on diabetic foot care and eye check-ups for diabetes-related complications.
Interactive activities such as self-introductions, inspirational talks, fun games, quizzes, and cultural programs further motivated the participants, fostering a sense of community and positivity.
The program was coordinated by Dr. Koushik Urala, with support from Dr. Ajith and Ms. Jyothi from ICMR-YDR. Participants also enjoyed specially prepared diabetic-friendly meals during the event.
This initiative marks a significant step towards empowering young diabetics with knowledge and tools to manage their condition effectively.
