How can we combat the diabetes epidemic? Insights from the TOI Medithon Part-5

In the fifth edition of the medithon series which was held on January 8, TOI brought together healthcare professionals, patients, and advocates to raise awareness about diabetes prevention, management, and care.

The TOI Medithon Part-5 featured expert-led sessions on risk factors, complications, and lifestyle changes, with an emphasis on early detection and holistic health. Engaging panel discussions highlighted lesser known facts about the metabolic disorder that affects millions in the country.

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First session: Diabetes - Risk factors and complicationsDiabetes risk factors include obesity, sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, family history, and age. Complications arise from unmanaged diabetes, such as heart disease, kidney damage, nerve issues, and vision loss. The opening session of the TOI Medithon Part 5 had experts who emphasized that early detection and proactive management through diet, exercise, and medication can reduce risks and prevent life-threatening consequences.

Dr. Rana Bhattacharjee emphasized that diabetes is multifactorial, highlighting its connection with high blood pressure. "Many factors can influence blood sugar levels," he explained, underscoring the intricate interplay between diabetes and hypertension.

Dr. Prem Narayan pointed out that cardiac and brain issues are among the most significant complications of diabetes. He stressed, "Diabetes increases the risk of coronary problems, and people are largely unaware of the risks of heart failure associated with it."

Dr. John Verghese discussed the effects of diabetes on the kidneys, drawing attention to how the condition can lead to renal complications if not managed effectively.

Second session: Live Well with Diabetes : Getting to know about DiabetesLiving well with diabetes starts with understanding it. Diabetes affects how your body uses insulin to regulate blood sugar. In the second session of this highly impactful event, doctors stressed on the symptoms and proactive lifestyle measures to counter the impact of diabetes on human health.

Dr. Bharat Sharma provided a foundational overview of diabetes, describing it as "an abnormality of metabolism and insulin that affects various bodily functions." He highlighted its prevalence in India, a nation with a rapidly growing diabetic population.

Dr. Krishna Mori shed light on gender differences in diabetes, stating, "Diabetes in women is quite distinct from men due to factors like age and body mass index." He elaborated on the role of reproductive hormones, which significantly influence diabetes onset in women.

Dr. Vishnu Radhakrishnan shared practical advice on recognizing early symptoms of diabetes. "One may not recognize the symptoms right away," he noted. Common symptoms include increased thirst, frequent urination, heightened hunger, fatigue, and unusual breath odor.
Third session: Live well with Diabetes - Prevention, management and reversal
Living well with diabetes involves prevention, effective management, and potential reversal. Experts at the TOI Medithon stressed on adopting a balanced diet, regular exercise, having a healthy weight, monitoring blood sugar levels, managing stress, and prioritizing quality sleep.

Dr. Kunal Thakkar highlighted the alarming rise in diabetes in India, stating, "India has become the diabetes capital of the world. Millions are diabetic, and many more remain undiagnosed." He emphasized the need for awareness and proactive health measures to reduce risk.

Dr. Kaushik Biswas discussed the critical role of weight management in diabetes prevention. "Major studies have shown that the combination of weight loss, dietary intervention, and physical activity can reduce diabetes risk by more than half," he shared.

Dr. Alka Bishnoi focused on dietary strategies for prevention. "Low-calorie diets around 1500 calories, or very low-calorie diets around 800 calories, can help reduce weight and prevent diabetes," she explained. She also endorsed the Mediterranean diet as beneficial for preventing lifestyle-related disorders like diabetes.
Fourth session: Diabetes & Obesity
Diabetes and obesity are closely linked, with obesity being a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes. Excess body fat disrupts insulin function, leading to high blood sugar levels. Doctors discussed this relevant topic in the fourth session of the TOI Medithon.

Dr. Ananthraman R explained the role of obesity in metabolic disorders like diabetes. "Obesity can lead to diabetes, hypertension, high triglycerides, and low HDL levels," he said, emphasizing the interconnected nature of these conditions.

Dr. Jayaprakash P highlighted the challenges obesity poses for disease management. "Excessive weight increases the need for medication and raises the risk of life-threatening diseases in people with diabetes," he stated.

Dr. Satyam Chakraborty stressed the importance of balancing energy accumulation and expenditure. "Obesity depends on fat deposits in the body, and achieving a perfect balance is crucial for preventing diabetes," he advised.

The TOI medithon part-5 inspired to remain proactive in addressing diabetes, as healthcare professionals explained the prevention, management, and the importance of a holistic approach to diabetes care.