Dr. Wasim Ghori

As we observe World Diabetes Day on November 14th, it’s imperative to address the escalating diabetes pandemic in India. As a Diabetologist, I emphasize the critical role of early detection, screening, and prevention in mitigating the burden of diabetes.

The Alarming Reality:

India is home to over 77 million people living with diabetes, accounting for 10% of the global diabetic population (IDF, 2022). If unchecked, this number is projected to surge to 134 million by 2045 (IDF, 2022). Diabetes prevalence in India has increased by 32% since 2010 (WHO, 2019).

The Weight of Diabetes:

Diabetes exacts a substantial economic toll, with India’s annual healthcare expenditure on diabetes estimated at ₹2.8 lakh crore (₹280 billion) (WHO, 2019). The disease also imposes a significant emotional and social burden, affecting quality of life and productivity.

Twin Epidemics: Diabetes and Obesity:

Obesity is a primary risk factor for developing Type 2 Diabetes. India’s obesity prevalence has more than tripled since 1980 with 22.5% of adults now classified as obese (WHO, 2016).

Long-Term Complications: A Devastating Reality!

Untreated or poorly managed diabetes leads to devastating complications:

1. Ischemic Stroke: 2-4 times increased risk (ADA, 2020)
2. Diabetic Retinopathy: Leading cause of blindness in adults (WHO, 2016)
3. Heart Disease: 2-3 times increased risk (ESC, 2019)
4. Kidney Disease: Leading cause of end-stage renal disease (WHO, 2019)
5. NAFLD (Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease): 50-60% prevalence in type 2 diabetes patients (AASLD, 2018)
6. Foot Amputations: 5-10 times increased risk (ADA, 2020)

Law of Diminishing Returns!

Early intervention yields significant benefits:

1. Every 1% reduction in HbA1c levels decreases complication risk by 21% (UKPDS, 1998)
2. Intensive lifestyle interventions reduce type 2 diabetes risk by 58% (DPP, 2002)

Break the Partnership between Diabetes and Obesity!

To achieve a Complications-Free India, we must:

1. Screen: Regular blood glucose checks for those aged 40+ or with risk factors
2. Prevent: Promote healthy lifestyles, balanced diets and physical activity
3. Detect Early: Implement nationwide screening programs
4. Manage Effectively: Optimize treatment plans, monitor complications

Innovations in Diabetes Care!

Recent advancements in diabetes management include:

1. Artificial Pancreas: Improving glycemic control (ADA, 2022)
2. Personalized Medicine: Tailoring treatment to individual needs (ESC, 2020)
3. Digital Health: Enhancing patient engagement and outcomes (WHO, 2020)

Call to Action!

This World Diabetes Day, let’s pledge to:

1. Prioritize early detection and screening
2. Foster a culture of prevention
3. Break the partnership between diabetes and obesity
4. Support research and innovation

Together, we can create a complications-free India, alleviating the weight of diabetes.

References:

1. International Diabetes Federation (IDF). (2022). Diabetes Atlas, 10th Edition.
2. World Health Organization (WHO). (2019). Diabetes.
3. World Health Organization (WHO). (2016). Obesity and overweight.
4. American Diabetes Association (ADA). (2020). Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes.
5. European Society of Cardiology (ESC). (2019). Cardiovascular diseases and diabetes.
6. American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD). (2018). Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease.
7. UK Prospective Diabetes Study (UKPDS). (1998). Intensive blood-glucose control.
8. Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP). (2002). Reduction in the incidence of type 2 diabetes.

Dr. Wasim Ghori – UK Alumni

Consultant Diabetologist

Chief Operating Officer – Wellspring Healthcare

Fellow – AHPI Leadership Forum, India

Member – Confederation of Indian Industry, CII-Western Region, Healthcare