Srinagar, Nov 14 (KNO): On World Diabetes Day, health experts called for a comprehensive approach towards diabetes management, saying treatment should focus not only on controlling blood sugar levels but also on protecting patients from long-term complications and ensuring a better quality of life.
Dr Shariq Rashid Masoodi, Senior Consultant, Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolic Medicine at DSM Clinics Kashmir, speaking with the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), said people should not wait for diabetes to manifest through symptoms before taking action, as early screening, timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment can make a significant difference.
He said diabetes care must go beyond blood sugar control and focus on protecting vital organs, including the heart, kidneys, eyes and nerves, while also addressing associated metabolic risks.
Dr Masoodi said people living with diabetes require continuous medical attention and a comprehensive treatment approach to minimise the risk of complications and maintain their overall health.
He added that access to quality diabetes care should be ensured for everyone, irrespective of their financial circumstances, disability or geographical location.
"On World Diabetes Day, my message is simple: don't wait for diabetes to announce itself. Take action early. Let us make a commitment to support those living with diabetes, challenge myths and stigma, and turn awareness into meaningful action," he said.
Another endocrinologist, Dr Khursheed Ahmad, said greater attention was needed towards understanding how diabetes affects an individual's everyday life and how people diagnosed with the condition could cope with it while maintaining a healthy and productive life.
He said diabetes should not be considered a barrier to living a normal life, provided patients remain consistent with medical advice and make necessary changes to their daily routines.
Dr Khursheed stressed that lifestyle modifications, particularly changes in food habits and regular physical exercise, could help delay or even defer the onset of diabetes among people at risk.
He said people needed to adopt healthier lifestyles and remain conscious of their dietary choices and physical activity to reduce the long-term burden of the disease.
The experts said diabetes management requires sustained efforts, patient education and accessible healthcare services, adding that timely intervention and comprehensive care can help protect lives and improve the quality of life of those affected—(KNO)