Jahangeer Ganaie
Srinagar, Nov 14: On the occasion of World Diabetes Day, healthcare experts in Kashmir said there is an increasing prevalence of diabetes in the region and that many people are unaware of their condition. They called for early diagnosis, lifestyle modification and regular physical activity to combat this growing health issue.
Dr Mashkoor, a prominent doctor from Government Medical College (GMC) Anantnag, said that diabetes is a chronic condition that occurs when the pancreas either does not produce enough insulin or when the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces.
He said there are three main types of diabetes: Type 1, Type 2, and gestational diabetes (developing during pregnancy).
“In all cases, sugar builds up in the bloodstream because the pancreas fails to produce enough insulin. Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes may arise due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors,” the doctor said.
Dr Mashkoor said while diabetes was previously thought to be more common in urban areas, it is now being reported in both rural and urban populations. However, many remain unaware of their condition because symptoms can be subtle and often go unnoticed, he added.
Common symptoms of diabetes include increased thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, irritability, blurry vision and slow-healing sores, the doctor said, adding that while these symptoms may not always be obvious, those with a family history of diabetes or other risk factors should be especially vigilant.
He warned that uncontrolled diabetes can lead to serious long-term complications. “The longer you have diabetes and uncontrolled blood sugar levels, the higher your risk of developing complications,” he said.
Doctors said that lifestyle modifications play a crucial role in preventing and managing diabetes.
Dr Shahnawaz Ahmad, an endocrinologist, said that nearly half of people with diabetes are unaware of their condition. He urged those with a family history of diabetes or those with lifestyle-related risk factors (such as obesity or hypertension) to undergo regular screenings.
“If you are over 35 years old and have risk factors like obesity, hypertension or a family history of diabetes, you should get your blood sugar tested at least once a year,” Dr Shahnawaz advised. He recommended a 45-minute brisk walk daily to help maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of diabetes.
Dr Rafaqat, another endocrinologist, termed diabetes a “silent killer” and called for weight reduction, dietary control and exercise to prevent the disease. “Diabetes education is just as important as treatment. People with diabetes should avoid self-medication or visiting quacks, as these can lead to further complications,” he said.
The doctor explained the different types of diabetes: Type 1 diabetes, which occurs when the pancreas fails to produce insulin, typically manifests in children and is a lifelong condition. Type 2 diabetes, on the other hand, occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin. Adults with Type 2 diabetes produce insulin but it becomes less effective over time.
“Excessive use of steroids, self-medication, and poor dietary habits, such as consuming carbohydrate-rich diets, are contributing to the rising rates of Type 2 diabetes in the region,” Dr Rafaqat said.
Possible complications of diabetes, according to doctors, include: Cardiovascular disease, Diabetic neuropathy (nerve damage), Diabetic nephropathy (kidney damage), Diabetic retinopathy (eye damage); and Alzheimer’s disease.
In recent years, the Directorate of Health Services Kashmir (DHSK) has been actively screening the population for diabetes. Over the past three years, more than 10 lakh people have been screened, with 1.2 lakh individuals diagnosed with diabetes, a health official said.
