Loud action required

The rapid rise of diabetes across Jammu and Kashmir is a public health alarm that can no longer be ignored. With nearly 20 per cent of adults in Jammu and around 10–12 per cent in Kashmir living with the condition, the region is clearly in the grip of what experts rightly call a “silent epidemic.” This is not merely a medical issue, but a societal challenge shaped by changing lifestyles, dietary habits and reduced physical activity. Diabetes, if left unmanaged, can lead to severe complications including heart disease, kidney failure and nerve damage. While medication remains essential, doctors consistently emphasise that the real battle is won, or lost, through lifestyle choices. Diet, in particular, stands at the centre of effective management and prevention. The shift away from traditional, balanced diets towards processed and high-sugar foods has worsened the crisis. Reversing this trend requires both awareness and accessibility. Incorporating whole grains, legumes, vegetables and fibre-rich foods, while limiting refined carbohydrates and fried items, is not just advice but a necessity. Equally important is the need for regular meal timings, portion control and adequate hydration. However, individual responsibility alone cannot address a crisis of this scale. Public health authorities must intensify awareness campaigns, promote routine screenings and integrate nutrition education into community programmes. Schools, workplaces and local institutions should actively encourage healthier lifestyles. Jammu and Kashmir stands at a critical juncture. The choices made today, by individuals and policymakers alike, will determine whether diabetes continues its unchecked rise or is brought under control. Preventive action, rooted in informed living, remains the most powerful tool to combat this growing threat.