ISLAMABAD: With increasing levels of poor nutrition and physical inactivity among people, type 2 diabetes has the potential to become a global public health issue, leading to serious health problems.
One, out of two adults, currently living with diabetes, is undiagnosed. Those at risk of developing it in the future, must ensure early diagnosis and treatment of diabetes complications, said Wasim Akram, the cricket legend and honourable chief guest, while addressing the participants of a walk organised by Shifa International Hospital in collaboration with a media group and Roche to mark World Diabetes Day, highlighting this year’s theme ‘Eyes on Diabetes – Act Today to Change Tomorrow’.
A large number of doctors, Shifa employees, citizens and students participated in the event. The participants were holding placards and banners inscribed with encouraging slogans for diabetic patients and awareness quotes.
Wasim shared with audience that 1km daily walk and diet control is my routine for many years that keeps me fit in my fifties. He said that public awareness is very important for timely diagnosis and treatment of this disease. He stressed that unhealthy diets and physical inactivity are key risk factors for the diabetes. He thanked media for supporting the cause and helping Shifa in educating people.
Shifa CEO Dr Manzoorul Haq said the objective behind arranging the walk was to educate people about diabetes and its prevention and control. He highlighted the importance of diet in treatment of diabetes.
Consultant endocrinologist Dr Tayyab Badshah said only 24 endocrinologists are available in Pakistan, out of them four are available in Shifa International Hospital. He also underlined factors affecting the diet of diabetic patients such as type of diabetes, complications, medications, blood sugar control, previous medical history, height, weight, age, gender, dietary history, eating patterns, favorite foods and their allergies and physical activity.
Taking a balanced diet, regular exercise, weight control, regular medication and proper monitoring tests are a few essential measures that can help in preventing diabetes and its complications.
Shifa Chief Operating Officer Aziz Ahmad Jan, Red Crescent Chairman Dr Saeed Elahi, Health Care Education Senior Editor Wasif Nagi, Roche Diabetic Care Country Head Sohail Akhtar Malik, PIMS Pediatric Endocrinologist Dr Shireen Gul also addressed the audience.
All speakers stressed that walk and physical activities help reduce the risk of diabetes and other many diseases. They said today’s walk was arranged to give masses a message that only physical activities and healthy sports can lead them to a better and productive life.
“We should regularly do exercise and eat healthy to live a good life and avoid medical complications,” the speakers stressed.
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