Governor Urges Collective Action to Combat Rising Diabetes Rates

Diabetes is increasingly recognized as a pressing public health challenge, and the importance of awareness and prevention was emphasized by Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati at the 13th annual conference of the Research Society for the Study of Diabetes in India (RSSDI). The event took place on October 29, 2023, at SCB Medical College in Cuttack. During his address, Kambhampati underscored the need for society to adopt healthier lifestyles and foster a culture of health consciousness.

The Governor described diabetes as a “silent epidemic” that impacts not only individuals but also places significant burdens on families, communities, and the economy. He highlighted the severe complications associated with the disease, including cardiovascular issues, kidney failure, vision loss, and neuropathy, which necessitate urgent and comprehensive action. “We must recognize that while advances in medical science are vital, prevention remains the most effective strategy,” Kambhampati stated.

In his remarks, Kambhampati pointed out that progress in managing diabetes has been aided by innovations such as artificial intelligence, digital health technologies, and personalized medicine. Nevertheless, he asserted that maintaining balanced nutrition, engaging in regular exercise, managing stress, and scheduling timely health check-ups are essential to significantly reduce the risk of diabetes.

Kambhampati drew a comparison with India’s successful efforts to eradicate polio, stating that a collective spirit is essential to combat diabetes effectively. He praised national and state-level initiatives, particularly the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases and Stroke (NPCDCS), and called for enhanced collaboration among healthcare providers, researchers, and community organizations to ensure equitable access to quality healthcare across the state.

The conference featured insights from several prominent figures in diabetes care, including senior consultant physician Dr. CH Vasanth Kumar from Apollo Hospital, and RSSDI Odisha’s esteemed members such as Dr. Siddhartha Das, Dr. Ramesh Kumar Goenka, and Dr. Suresh Kumar Bansal. Their contributions underscored the collaborative efforts necessary to tackle the diabetes epidemic effectively.

Kambhampati’s call to action resonates as diabetes continues to pose an escalating public health challenge, necessitating a united response from all sectors of society to promote awareness and preventive measures. Through concerted efforts, there is hope for reducing the burden of diabetes and improving health outcomes for individuals across the region.