Srinagar, Nov 14: Medicos at Sher-e-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) Soura, Monday revealed that number of people being diagnosed with the Diabetes was increasing manifold in the Valley.
 The tertiary care institute had organized a seminar on World Diabetes Day to create awareness among the people about the disease and preventive measures needed. Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) workers across the Valley also participated in the seminar.
 Endocrinologist, Dr Shariq Masoodi said the number of diabetic patients visiting the institute has increased. “High food intakes and less physical activities are among the main reason behind the disease,” he said.
 He said ICDS workers have an active role to play in spreading awareness about the disease and its prevention.
 About prevalence of diabetes in Kashmir Dr Masoodi said the percentage of patients in different age groups was increasing. “In 2008 we did a study on people between 20 to 40 years age group, in the productive age. We were surprised to know 2.5 percent had Diabetes, another 25 percent had pre-diabetes.1 in 4 young people had pre-diabetes. Only 1 in 10 knew they have Diabetes,” he said.
 Additional Professor Endocrinology SKIMS, Dr Bashir Ahmad Lawai, said the reason behind the increase of diabetic patients is peoples’ fear for insulin injections. “Because of ignorance some people in Kashmir have a phobia for insulin injections, for they fear it may cause addiction. Let it be known, it is not always life long, once the blood glucose is under control, those may be reduced or stopped. It may also be controlled with oral drugs,” he said.
 Dr Lawai proposed that a national consensus could help minimize the patients. “A national consensus for the treatment of diabetes should emerge, where a blue-print could be laid down for exploring all opportunities needed to reduce the prevalence of this disease.

Lastupdate on : Mon, 14 Nov 2011 21:30:00 Makkah time
Lastupdate on : Mon, 14 Nov 2011 18:30:00 GMT
Lastupdate on : Tue, 15 Nov 2011 00:00:00 IST