GMC Srinagar Marks World Diabetes Day with Awareness Drive, Free Screening Camp and 3rd Diabetes Run
SRINAGAR, NOVEMBER 14: The Department of Endocrinology, Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar, in collaboration with Super Speciality Hospital (SSH), organised a series of awareness, screening and community outreach activities on Friday to mark World Diabetes Day, focusing on the global theme, “Early Action on Diabetes.”
The programme was held under the guidance of Principal/Dean, GMC Srinagar, Prof. (Dr.) Iffat Hassan, with an emphasis on early diagnosis, preventive healthcare and greater public awareness about diabetes.
Addressing the gathering, Prof. (Dr.) Iffat Hassan described diabetes as one of the fastest-growing public health challenges and stressed that adopting a healthy lifestyle remains central to its prevention and management. She highlighted the importance of early diagnosis, regular screening and timely treatment to prevent serious complications.
She urged people to maintain healthy dietary habits, achieve an appropriate body weight, avoid tobacco consumption and engage in at least 30 minutes of physical activity daily to reduce the risk of diabetes and associated cardiovascular, kidney and eye complications.
Prof. (Dr.) Mohammad Hayat Bhat, Head of the Department of Endocrinology, advised adults to undergo blood sugar screening and stressed the need for regular monitoring among individuals with risk factors, including family history of diabetes, obesity, hypertension, physical inactivity and a history of gestational diabetes.
He cautioned that uncontrolled diabetes can progressively damage vital organs, including the heart, kidneys, eyes and nerves, often without noticeable symptoms in its early stages. He emphasised that timely detection, proper glycaemic control, balanced nutrition, regular exercise and adherence to prescribed treatment are essential for preventing complications.
Mr. Masarat Hashim, Administrator, Associated Hospitals, GMC Srinagar, appreciated the Department of Endocrinology for organising the awareness initiative and reiterated the institution's commitment to extending administrative and logistical support to public health programmes. He encouraged people to take greater responsibility for their health through regular medical check-ups, healthy lifestyle choices and timely consultation with healthcare professionals.
Dr. Shahnaz, Associate Professor, Department of Endocrinology, underscored the importance of community participation and public awareness in preventing and managing diabetes. She also appreciated the enthusiastic participation of students, healthcare professionals and members of the public in the Diabetes Run.
The major highlight of the programme was the 3rd Edition of the Diabetes Run, which was flagged off at 7:30 a.m. from Nishat Garden Gate to Duck Park and back. More than 300 participants, including faculty members, doctors, nursing staff, postgraduate residents, interns, MBBS students and members of the general public, took part in the event. Winners in the men's and women's categories were felicitated.
As part of the outreach initiative, a special interactive session was also organised for children living with Type 1 Diabetes, providing them and their parents with education, counselling and support.
A Free Diabetes Screening and Patient Education Camp was subsequently held on the lawns of Super Speciality Hospital, where more than 500 patients underwent screening. The camp offered blood glucose testing, risk assessment and counselling on healthy nutrition, physical activity, foot care, medication adherence and lifestyle modifications. A separate screening facility was also arranged for faculty members.
The programme was attended by Heads of Departments, faculty members, the Medical Superintendent of Super Speciality Hospital, consultants from the Department of Endocrinology, senior and junior residents, postgraduate trainees, interns, MBBS students and paramedical staff.
The Department of Endocrinology, GMC Srinagar, reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening diabetes awareness, promoting preventive healthcare and encouraging early detection through sustained community engagement.
The programme concluded with a renewed call for regular health screening, healthier lifestyle choices and timely medical intervention to effectively address the growing challenge of diabetes. ANB
