Breaking Barriers in Diabetes Care

Observed on November 14 each year, World Diabetes Day raises awareness about diabetes, a chronic condition affecting millions worldwide. This date honors Sir Frederick Banting, who, with Charles Best, discovered insulin in 1921, transforming diabetes from a fatal disease to a manageable condition.

World Diabetes Day unites individuals, healthcare providers, and organizations to share knowledge and advocate for better diabetes care. This year's theme, "Breaking Barriers, Bridging Gaps," highlights the urgent need to overcome obstacles in accessing diabetes care and support. The theme reflects a global commitment to improving access to diagnosis, treatment, and education, especially in low-income and underserved areas.

Diabetes: A Global Health Crisis

Diabetes is one of the fastest-growing health challenges worldwide. In 2021, 537 million adults (10.5% of the global adult population) were living with diabetes. Without action, this figure could rise to 783 million by 2045. Beyond being chronic, diabetes increases the risk of severe complications, such as heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and vision loss. Mental health impacts are significant too—about 36% of people with diabetes experience distress related to managing the condition, and 63% report anxiety over complications.

India: The Diabetes Capital

India ranks among the countries most affected by diabetes, with 74.9 million adults diagnosed in 2021, a number projected to reach 124.9 million by 2045. Sedentary lifestyles, unhealthy diets, rising obesity rates, and genetic factors contribute to this increase. In 2021, nearly 45% of people with diabetes in India were unaware of their condition, highlighting a critical need for education and early screening programs to prevent complications.

Bridging Gaps in Diabetes Care

“Breaking Barriers, Bridging Gaps” emphasizes the need for global strategies to make diabetes care accessible for everyone. Addressing socioeconomic and geographic disparities is essential to ensuring that all individuals can receive the treatment they need to live healthier lives with diabetes.

To bridge these gaps, several measures need to be put in place:

1.     Raising Awareness: Educating the public about diabetes, its symptoms, and its risks can help people recognize the signs early and seek medical advice. Awareness campaigns can also help reduce the stigma often associated with the disease, encouraging more people to get tested.

2.     Improving Access to Care: Many people, especially in rural and low-income areas, lack access to healthcare facilities and diabetes specialists. Expanding healthcare services and training more healthcare providers can help address this issue.

3.     Making Treatment Affordable: The cost of diabetes care, including medications, monitoring devices, and specialist consultations, can be a major barrier for many patients. Governments and healthcare organizations must work together to make treatment more affordable and accessible.

4.     Supporting Mental Health: Living with diabetes can be stressful, and many people experience anxiety about managing their condition and the risk of complications. Providing mental health support is essential to help patients cope with the emotional challenges of living with a chronic illness.

CME Event on Gestational Diabetes in GMC Srinagar

As part of the ongoing efforts to enhance diabetes care, the Department of Endocrinology at Superspeciality Hospital, GMC Srinagar, will host a Continuing Medical Education (CME) event on Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) on November 14, 2024. Gestational diabetes is a form of diabetes that develops during pregnancy and can pose serious risks to both the mother and the baby if not managed properly.

The event, to be held at the GMC Auditorium, aims to provide healthcare professionals with the latest updates on diagnosing and treating GDM. It will offer an opportunity for doctors, nurses, and other healthcare providers to learn about new treatment protocols, share experiences, and discuss best practices. Such educational initiatives are crucial in improving patient outcomes and reducing the long-term health risks associated with gestational diabetes.

Working Together for a Healthier Future

World Diabetes Day is a reminder that diabetes is a global issue that requires collective action. By working together — governments, healthcare providers, communities, and individuals — we can break down the barriers to diabetes care and bridge the gaps that prevent people from getting the help they need. Each of us has a role to play in this fight. Making healthier lifestyle choices, such as eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding tobacco, can reduce the risk of developing diabetes. For those already living with the condition, regular monitoring, following medical advice, and seeking mental health support can make a big difference in managing the disease effectively.

Dr. Mohammad Hayat Bhat, Associate Professor, Dr. Md Ejaz Alam, Senior resident, Department of Endocrinology, GMC, Srinagar