Srinagar, 14 November
To mark World Diabetes Day, a Walkathon aimed at raising awareness about diabetes and promoting healthy living was jointly flagged off today by Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Mr. Anshul Garg (IAS), and Director SKIMS & EOSG, Prof. M. Ashraf Ganie, along with senior faculty members including Prof. Nisar Ahmad Bhat , HOD Peadetric Surgery & Associate Dean Student Welfare & Prof. Abrar Ahad Wani H.O.D Emergency Medicine at the iconic Clock Tower (Ghanta Ghar), Srinagar.
Following the Walkathon, a Screening Camp was organized at Joggers Park, Rajbagh, where experts from SKIMS screened around 300 individuals. Notably, 20 participants in a age group of 40- 45 years were newly diagnosed with diabetes, reflecting an upward trend in the burden of the disease. The newly diagnosed individuals were advised to follow up at the Department of Endocrinology, SKIMS for further evaluation and management.
In addition to screening, members of the general public received counseling and educational pamphlets on diabetes prevention, early detection, and lifestyle modification.
Speaking on the occasion, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Mr. Anshul Garg, lauded the initiative of SKIMS under the leadership of the Director SKIMS. He said, “Such initiatives play a crucial role in early prevention of the disease. Public participation in awareness programs like these is essential to curb the rising tide of diabetes in our region.”
Highlighting the importance of the day, Prof. M. Ashraf Ganie, world-renowned Endocrinologist and Director SKIMS, said that a significant proportion of the local population is affected by diabetes, underscoring the need for sustained public awareness. He expressed gratitude to Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Mr. Anshul Garg, for his participation and support in the initiative.
Prof. Ashraf emphasized the need for early prevention, noting that uncontrolled diabetes can lead to serious complications if not managed in time. “People need to adopt a healthy lifestyle,” he stressed, adding that diabetes prevalence is higher in urban populations compared to rural communities. He urged the public to embrace active living and healthy dietary habits.
He appreciated the efforts of the Organising Committee, headed by Prof. Riyaz Misgar and Dr. Aijaz, for conducting a well-coordinated and impactful awareness program. He also thanked the media for effectively highlighting the campaign and helping extend its message to a wider audience, especially at a time when diabetes affects a significant proportion of the population globally, including Jammu & Kashmir.
