Doctors in Karnataka initiate diabetes awareness campaign in schools

In a bid to curb the escalating prevalence of diabetes among children, healthcare professionals in Karnataka have initiated a campaign focused on schools.

The objective is to impart knowledge about the causes of diabetes and early intervention strategies. Dr. Manohar Nageshappa, Chairman of the Karnataka Research Society for the Study of Diabetes in India (KRSSDI), highlighted that lifestyle changes, exacerbated by the pandemic, have contributed to a surge in diabetes cases among children.

Unhealthy dietary practices and a sedentary lifestyle are identified as primary factors leading to the diagnosis of Type-2 diabetes in children. Unlike the past, where Type-1 diabetes, genetically inherited from parents, was more common, the current trend underscores the need for addressing lifestyle-related risks.

Aligned with the global observance of World Diabetes Awareness Month in November, doctors have been actively conducting awareness campaigns in various schools in Bengaluru over the past few months.

This initiative is now expanding to cover other districts in Karnataka. Under the MadhuMeha Pathshala and MadhuMeha Samvada campaign, students are being educated about Type-2 diabetes. As part of the program, students are required to complete forms containing diabetes-related questionnaires, which are subsequently evaluated by healthcare professionals.

The MadhuMeha Paathshala, spearheaded by Dr. Sridhar K, a General Council Member of KRRSDI, is an educational initiative aimed at enlightening children about the health benefits of regular exercise, coupled with the provision of relevant information.