World Diabetes Day Celebrated at ANMT School Auditorium Kupwara

Kupwara : In a significant event to mark World Diabetes Day, the Medicine Department of Sub-District Hospital (SDH) Kupwara hosted a seminar at the ANMT School Auditorium, under the leadership of Dr. S M Iqbal, Head of the Medicine Department.

The event, which saw active participation from healthcare professionals, students, and community members, focused on the growing prevalence of diabetes, its complications, and the latest advancements in its management. The discussions underscored the urgent need for early detection, comprehensive patient education, and a collaborative approach to combating the global diabetes crisis.

The seminar was attended by Dr. Mohd Ramzan, Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Kupwara, who graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Other dignitaries included Dr. Mohd Shafi, Medical Superintendent of SDH Kupwara, Dr. GH Hassan, District Tuberculosis Officer, Dr. Ashaq Nodal Officer DNB, and Dr. S M Iqbal, Head of the Medicine Department, and organizing secretary Dr Zia-ul Islam who all played key roles in the event’s success.

The event commenced with an inaugural address by Dr. Mushtaq, Consultant in Medicine at SDH Kupwara. He welcomed the gathering and highlighted the importance of World Diabetes Day in raising awareness about diabetes, both globally and locally.

Dr. Mushtaq pointed out the rising rates of diabetes and emphasized that the growing number of cases places a significant burden on healthcare systems. He stressed that this alarming trend demands urgent attention from both healthcare providers and the community.

Following Dr. Mushtaq, Dr. Ayjaz Ahmad Bhat delivered an impactful speech, stressing the importance of collaboration among healthcare professionals, researchers, and the community in managing and preventing diabetes. He called on all stakeholders to unite in addressing this growing health issue, which continues to burden the region.

A key moment of the event was the presentation by Dr. Ayjaz Sahib Bhat, who shared his research findings on the prevalence of diabetes in Kupwara. His study, recently accepted by the National Board of Examinations (NBE), revealed concerning statistics: approximately 10% of the population in Kupwara is currently living with diabetes, and 16% are prediabetic. These findings emphasize the urgent need for more robust screening and intervention programs in areas with high diabetes rates like Kupwara.

In the following session, Dr. Satykaran Vikram discussed the severe complications that can arise from poorly controlled diabetes, such as cardiovascular diseases, neuropathy, kidney failure, and blindness. He emphasized the importance of effective diabetes management strategies, including lifestyle changes, medication adherence, and regular monitoring, in preventing these life-threatening complications.

Dr. Sahil Surani then provided valuable insights into the clinical features and diagnostic approaches for diabetes. He outlined key symptoms and diagnostic tests essential for early detection and emphasized that timely intervention plays a crucial role in managing the condition and preventing complications.

Dr. Abhishek Chowdery presented an overview of the latest advancements in diabetes treatment, focusing on new pharmacological treatments, including newer classes of medications, and the critical role of insulin therapy in managing both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. He highlighted the importance of personalized treatment plans that cater to individual patient needs to optimize overall outcomes.

Dr. Atifa addressed the crucial role of patient education in diabetes management. She stressed the need for healthcare providers to empower patients with the knowledge and tools they need to effectively manage their condition. Dr. Atifa noted that effective educational interventions are key in promoting healthier lifestyles and ensuring adherence to prescribed treatments.

Dr. Muneer provided an informative session on gestational diabetes (GD), explaining the risks associated with the condition for both pregnant women and their babies. He discussed the importance of regular screening, monitoring, and post-pregnancy care to prevent the onset of Type 2 diabetes in women who have had gestational diabetes.

The seminar concluded with a comprehensive overview of the regional and national diabetes scenario, presented by Dr. S M Iqbal, Dr. Mohd Shafi, and Dr. GH Hassan. They discussed the growing prevalence of diabetes both regionally and nationally, underscoring the importance of early detection and increasing access to healthcare services. Dr. S M Iqbal emphasized the need for a coordinated approach to tackling diabetes, focusing on better awareness, early detection, and improved screening programs.

Dr. Mohd Ramzan, CMO Kupwara, also addressed the gathering, recognizing the significance of World Diabetes Day in raising awareness about diabetes. He urged the community to become more involved in diabetes prevention and called for sustained efforts to promote healthy lifestyles, improve screening, and ensure better access to healthcare services.

The event saw enthusiastic participation from DNB scholars, healthcare professionals from DH Kupwara and other medical blocks, the media, and ANMT students, who all actively engaged in discussions and gained valuable insights into the latest trends in diabetes management.

As diabetes continues to rise in Kupwara, this seminar served as a vital step in raising awareness and improving the management of the condition. It is hoped that such initiatives will continue to educate the public and healthcare providers, helping them manage and prevent diabetes more effectively in the region.