Dr. M V Jali: I strongly believe Diabetes can be controlled, contained through public participation, based on this belief, we as a team with the support of Dr. Prabhakar Kore, Chairman of the KLE Society are on a mission to create awareness in the community. Awareness and education play an important role in arresting the menace of Diabetes.
What is the significance of World Diabetes Day?
Dr. M V Jali: Unabated growth of Diabetes in Indian society is enormous and educating patients and their family members is a big challenge to clinicians. The belief of the Indian population, lifestyles, food habits, living standards, languages are all different these diversities make it even more difficult for management of diabetes. The significance is to break all the barriers and reach out to patients and families and create awareness for better management and control of Diabetes.
Dr. Jali, What is the prevalence of Diabetes in India?
Dr. M V Jali: Prevalence of Diabetes varies from state to state on an average in India it is between 8-12%. It is observed that the presence of Diabetes in an urban community is slightly higher than in rural masses. The landmark epidemiological study of Kudermukha conducted in the year 1989 and published in the reputed British Medical Journal (BMJ) has shown a 5% prevalence way back in 1989. Stalwarts in the field of Medicine like Dr. Vishwanathan, Dr. Mohan, Dr. Ramachandran of Chennai and I was part of the study. Various scientific studies have revealed that 12% Bengalurians and over 15% of Chennaites are Diabetic.
Diabetes turns out to be major Non-Communicable Disease (NCD) what are the ways and means to check the menace of Diabetes
Dr. M V Jali: Asian population at large and in particular Indians develops Diabetes at least 10 years early compared to other populations. Genetic factor plays an important role in the early onset of diabetes. Massive screening for Diabetes, initiating an early treatment, exercise, diet, education and regular follow-ups can greatly help to check the menace of Diabetes.
We appreciate you are championing the cause of Juvenile Diabetes. How many children are part of the Children Diabetes Program and tell us something about the Free Insulin program to them.
Dr. M V Jali: When we started the Juvenile Diabetes Program in this hospital we had 26 children with diabetes. Our objective was to boost morale, instill confidence and support diabetic children and their parents. Today we have close to 450 diabetic children who regularly visit, take treatment and are leading a healthy life. The management of Diabetic children is complex and a big challenge to clinicians. Dr. (Mrs.) Sujata Jali, a Pediatrician takes care of most of the diabetic children. The majority of these children come from low socio-economic families. Diabetes Centre of the hospital has given the children with glucometer, needles, and strips and are educated to check their diabetes status. All these children are empowered to manage their diabetes. They are also supplied with free Insulin as part of the Free Insulin Treatment (FIT) program. I am happy to state our Diabetes Centre is recognized among the top 13 best centers in the world. I am also thankful to NGOs and Pharma companies for extending their support for the noble cause.
We frequently hear the word, Pre-diabetic, What is pre- Diabetic and can we prevent the onset of diabetes.
Dr.M V Jali : It is the incubation period. Fasting/Post Prandial glucose levels are slightly higher than normal. Pre-diabetic can be diagnosed and the onset of Diabetes can be postponed through regular exercise, diet and lifestyle modifications. Usually genetic, environmental factors and stress act as triggers for diabetes.
What are the complications of Diabetes and can we prevent them?
Dr. M V Jali: Diabetes is a silent killer. In the initial years, it may not cause complications. In the majority of cases, it is undiagnosed. If not kept under strict control patients may suffer from stroke, diabetic retinopathy (eye complications), Diabetic foot, kidney diseases and cardiovascular diseases. Diabetics must visit their treating Physicians regularly and monitor their glucose levels and other parameters like renal, lipids and visit eye surgeons also.
How far, can exercise, diet, yoga helps in controlling Diabetes?
Dr. M V Jali: Definitely they do help in controlling Diabetes. But exercise regimen to be taken only after advice from Physicians.
What is your word of advice to health policymakers in controlling Diabetes?
Dr. M V Jali: Every Indian above the age of 30-35 years must be screened for Diabetes. To look for undiagnosed patients. Primary prevention is important. ‘Catch them early’ to prevent complications of Diabetes. The role of family and educating them is also important in the management of diabetes.
Your message to Diabetic patients.
Dr. M V Jali: Avoid junk foods like Pizza, Burgers, and frozen, packed/preserved foods. Eat plenty of fresh, green vegetables. Strictly avoid colas. Stick to our conventional food. I advise EAT RIGHT, EAT LIGHT.
World Diabetes Day- Diabetes Walk is organized from Kittur Rani Chennamma Circle to KLES Hospital on 14th Nov, 2019 at 7.30 am. Further, the Diabetes Check-up camp is organized from 10 am onwards in the hospital premises.
Interaction with Dr. M.V. Jali,MD, FRCP (London)Medical Director & CEO; Chief Diabetologist KLES Dr. Prabhakar Kore Hospital
Professor of Diabetology, KLE University’s J.N.Medical College
Director: KLES Diabetes Centre