Diabetes cannot be controlled without a balanced diet and regular exercise, Professor Muhammad Saeed Qureshi

KARACHI: Vice Chancellor Dow University of Health Sciences, Professor Muhammad Saeed Quraishy, has said that one-third of Pakistan's population is affected by diabetes. He showed concern that there is a continuous increase in the number of affected individuals, which needs to be controlled. VC DUHS said that without changing lifestyles, the prevalence of diabetes cannot be reduced; rather, it will increase. He said that Diabetes cannot be controlled without a balanced diet and regular exercise. He made these remarks while addressing an awareness seminar as the guest of honor. The seminar was organized by the National Institute of Diabetes and Endocrinology (NIDE) on World Diabetes Day at DUHS-Ojha Campus. The seminar also featured speeches from Pro-Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Jehan Ara Hasan, Principal of Dow International Medical College Professor Muhammad Iftikhar, Director NIDE Dr. Musarrat Riaz, Dr.Hasan Khan, Dr. Fareed, and nutritionist Ms. Tehmina. The seminar was attended by a large number of faculty members and students. Speaking at the seminar, Pro-Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Jahan Ara Hasan acknwol the efforts of doctors and medical staff in raising public awareness about diabetes. She characterized controlling diabetes as a collective effort but emphasized the importance of individual actions. She advised people to eat a balanced diet and walk regularly to control blood sugar levels. She also suggested that doctors should extend these awareness efforts to different communities and hold sessions on diabetes awareness. Principal of Dow International Medical College, Professor Muhammad Iftikhar, addressed the audience about consuming sweets on various occasions and adopting a healthy lifestyle. He mentioned that despite not being overweight, having a normal diet, and exercising, the risk of diabetes still exists, so it's important to take extra precautions. He further noted that in our culture, from birth celebrations to funerals, sweet dishes are everywhere. Sweets shops are ubiquitous, and thousands of boxes are sent from cities like Islamabad and Lahore. He emphasized that this culture needs to be change. He said that giving chocolate as an expression of love is considered more necessary. Prinicpal DIMC said that in an effort to promote a healthy lifestyle, Dow University now serves fruits instead of cakes, samosas, and fast food at various meetings. He stressed that food, sweets, and fast food are not the only ways to express love and care in relationships. Director of NIDE, Professor Dr. Musarrat Riaz, stated during the seminar that diabetes is spreading rapidly in Pakistan and it is now crucial to control it. She mentioned that the awareness walk was organized on World Diabetes Day to highlight the importance of walking in controlling diabetes, as a significant portion of the population does not walk and is unaware of its crucial role. She added that many people affected by diabetes are unaware of their condition until they develop various medical complications. Therefore, raising awareness and controlling diabetes is essential because controlled blood sugar is linked to better health. Later in his address at the seminar, Dr. Hasan Khan mentioned that consuming rice without draining the water after boiling it and eating excessive potatoes are factors that contribute to increased blood sugar levels. He emphasized the importance of dietary caution and recommended light exercise. He suggested that those not accustomed to regular exercise should engage in some form of physical activity. Dr. Fareed added that the repeated emphasis on controlling blood sugar is to prevent complications early on, such as heart disease or other illnesses. Nutritionist Ms. Tehmina mentioned that it's a misconception to eat fruits with meals; they should be consumed two hours after meals because combined with carbohydrates, they can raise blood sugar levels. She advised that all family members should include raw vegetables or salads in their diet and live a disciplined life, incorporating regular meal times, adequate sleep, and exercise into their routine. Earlier, an awareness walk on World Diabetes Day was organized at Dow University Ojha Campus, starting from Dow Hospital's Trauma Center and concluding at NIDE.