-Shifa International hospital marks World Diabetes Day
By Ajmal Khan Yousafzai
ISLAMABAD: 14th November is observed as World Diabetes Day in response to growing concerns about the escalating health threat posed by diabetes. This year’s theme focuses on promoting the role of nurses in the prevention and management of diabetes.
Consultant Endocrinologist at Shifa International Hospital, Dr. Osama Ishtiaq said that overall diabetes prevalence in Pakistan is almost 19 percent and over 522 million people are currently living with diabetes globally. He stated that 90 percent of diabetic patients have type 2 diabetes, which is largely preventable through regular physical activity, a healthy and balanced diet, and the promotion of healthy living environments. He said risk factors may include genetic, being overweight, gestational diabetes and polycystic ovary in women.
He stressed the need to educate the masses about diseases and the importance of a suitable environment to live and adopt a healthier lifestyle.
Consultant Endocrinologist SIH, Dr. Tayyab Badshah said that type 1 diabetes is not preventable but can be managed with insulin injections, and if a patient with diabetes goes untreated for a long time, there can be serious effects on the patient as he may suffer from organ failure, stroke, stroke, lower limb amputation, and even heart attack.
Consultant Endocrinologist SIH, Dr. Umar Yousaf Raja Khan explained that Diabetes is a chronic disease that occurs when the pancreas is no longer able to make insulin, or when the body cannot make good use of the insulin it produces. Over the long-term high glucose levels are associated with damage to the body and failure of various organs and tissues. 1 in every 2 people currently living with diabetes is undiagnosed. Early diagnosis and treatment are key elements to prevent the complications of diabetes and achieve healthy outcomes, he stated.
Consultant Endocrinologist SIH, Dr. Tejhmal Rehman talked about prevailing diabetes in children.
He said type one diabetes is common among children where the pancreas fails to make insulin necessary to maintain blood glucose and the patient needs to be injected with external insulin. Symptoms include frequent urination, weight loss, affected growth, extreme tiredness, loss of appetite.
He said that a child must be tested for diabetes if parents observe any of the above symptoms.
