Diabetes campaign to be launched in 23 districts soon

Hundreds of volunteers took part in ‘Know Diabetes No Diabetes,’ an awareness campaign on the lifestyle disorder, jointly organised by the Rotary International and Art of Living on Sunday.

A two-kilometre walkathon was held on the occasion, with participants holding placards conveying messages on preventing the onset of diabetes.

Rising numbers

Addressing the gathering, Mukhyamantri Chandru, chairperson of Kannada Development Authority, said the number of diabetic patients was on the rise and the State government should launch initiatives to spread awareness on the disorder. He said the focus should be on villages where people have little knowledge of diabetes.

No cure

“Diabetes cannot be cured but has to be managed. And in order to manage the disorder with medical assistance it is important to acquire knowledge about it,” Chandru said.

The organisers said the campaign will be launched in 23 districts of Karnataka by February and about 1,600 free screening camps and exhibitions on diabetes will be organised at these places.

 J B Kamdar, Chairperson of the campaign, said the initiative aims to mobilise thousands of Rotarians and volunteers from the Art of Living across the country to sensitise people on diabetes.

“The thrust is on educating people on healthy lifestyle, exercise and proper medication to manage the disorder,” he said.

Badri Prasad, Governor Rotary International District 3190 said that the patient has to come to terms with diabetes and modify lifestyle accordingly. He said diabetics can lead a normal life with early diagnosis and consistent management.

Free diabetes screening camps were held at 100 centres in the City as part of the campaign.