Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh, who holds key portfolios in Science & Technology and PMO, has voiced alarm over the increasing epidemic of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in India. Previously associated with affluence and urban living, the disease is now spreading rapidly in rural areas. Dr. Singh inaugurated the Rural Diabetes Prevention & Control Campaign in Varanasi, addressing the issue’s gravity.
The campaign, organized under the Research Society for Study of Diabetes in India (RSSDI) – Uttar Pradesh Chapter, commences with the adoption of Purana Ramnagar village. Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasizes the urgency of addressing diabetes in rural areas, citing common factors like fast food preferences, increased automation in agriculture, and decreased physical activity.
“Applauding the RSSDI’s initiative, Dr. Singh references the ICMR-INDIAB Study, revealing that 18% of Uttar Pradesh’s population is in the pre-diabetes stage. This underscores the critical need for preventive measures, especially in areas undergoing rapid urbanization”.
Dr. Singh acknowledges the Central Government’s efforts in tackling diabetes at a national level, including free blood sugar testing campaigns and health insurance policies. However, he stresses the importance of non-governmental agencies and civil society in combatting this health crisis.
“Highlighting the changing diabetes landscape in India, Dr. Jitendra Singh notes a significant increase in Type 2 Diabetes cases over the last two decades. He emphasizes the role of lifestyle management in diabetes control and underscores the importance of understanding the Indian phenotype’s unique characteristics”.
Dr. Singh expresses optimism about India’s potential to lead global diabetes research, citing the country’s diverse patient pool and the expertise of its researchers. He emphasizes the need to generate Indian-specific data and solutions for diabetes management.
In addition, Dr. Jitendra Singh promotes the integration of traditional practices, such as Yoga and millet-based diets, into healthcare. He suggests that millet, rich in essential nutrients, could play a beneficial role in diabetes prevention.
Concluding his address, Dr. Singh emphasizes that preventing diabetes is not just a healthcare obligation but also a crucial step towards nation-building. He commends Prime Minister Modi’s commitment to healthcare and envisions India becoming a leading nation in healthcare over the next 25 years.
