Speech by Her Excellency the President of India, Shrimati Pratibha Devisingh Patil, at the Delhi Diabetic Forum

Members of the Delhi Diabetic Forum,

Dear Doctors,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

I am happy to be here today. I would like to congratulate the Delhi Diabetic Forum, which was created by a group of doctors in 1991, for working with dedication over the last several years. As a voluntary society consisting of doctors, persons affected by diabetes and paramedics, it has contributed to creating general awareness about diabetes. This forum has a unique composition - it brings together those in the medical field and those who suffer from this disease. It, therefore, can be a very useful platform for dealing effectively with the issues that persons suffering from diabetes face.

This disease is not new to Indian medicine and doctors. It was as far back as in the 6th century B.C. that the famous surgeon Sushruta of ancient India described a disease he called, madhumeha. Not only was he able to understand the underlying cause of this disease, which is evident from the name he gave it, but he also was able to suggest preventive measures. Among Sushruta's main prescriptions for controlling this disease, was regular physical exercise. The problem of varying sugar levels in the body is today known by the name diabetes mellitus. But the best remedy for dealing with it still remains, as it was millennia ago - a healthy lifestyle, which must include regular exercise.

It is a matter of concern that diabetes in India is on the rise. The World Health Organisation has cautioned that India could become the diabetes capital of the world. Patients in India are currently around 42 million and it is estimated that this figure will almost double and rise to 80 million by 2030. Every fifth person in the world with diabetes will be an Indian. Hence, prevention and treatment of diabetes will be one of the major healthcare issues in India.

Diabetes is the root cause of many ailments. If undetected or if not controlled, it is a silent killer afflicting various organs of the body and causing serious complications like kidney failure, heart problems, stroke, and vision problems, which can lead to blindness. Diabetes has extensive damage capability and can render a person incapable of leading a fully productive life. WHO estimates that diabetes, heart disease and stroke will cost about US $333 billion over next 10 years in India. This is a large economic cost to the nation. A comprehensive approach is needed to combat the increasing prevalence of these lifestyle diseases.

There is a link between hereditary factors and diabetes, but often, it is the outcome of sedentary lifestyles. If one looks at the living patterns today, it is not difficult to understand why diabetes is prevalent. A condition that was earlier described as afflicting the elderly, is no longer so. There are cases where children are also being detected with this condition. Daily routines have become so hectic that there is a little time to walk or to do any exercise. People are increasingly using their vehicles even for errands in nearby localities. The demands and pressures of jobs and professions in a competitive world have generated high levels of stresses. All this is an invitation to diabetes. Lifestyle modification including increased physical activity, dietary changes and de-stressing can prevent or delay the onset of diabetes. For this our ancient traditional knowledge like yoga and meditation are also good practices. As is the conventional wisdom prevention is better than cure and hence steps to prevent diabetes should be taken.

However, in case one does get diabetic, it is important for the person to be responsible and disciplined. In India the approach to tackle diabetes is very ad hoc. Even after diagnosis, monitoring is very poor. Apart from regular medical tests, patients need to understand about the cure, treatment and management aspects, which are essential for a diabetic person to lead a near normal life. Rehabilitation of severely afflicted persons, suffering from disabilities is a major challenge which organizations like yours can play a significant role.

An important aspect of dealing with any disease is to create awareness among the people regarding its causes and prevention. I am glad that organizations like yours have been in the forefront in undertaking awareness programmes, as also holding Camps where medical check ups are done free of cost for the poorer sections of society. I would like to make a special mention about the need to focus on rural areas, where people are ignorant and the health facilities available are limited. Therefore, special activities should be organized in villages, so that our rural population can benefit. The Delhi Diabetic Forum should consider including in their annual calendar of events, special segments for rural areas.

Considerable research is being undertaken in the medical field, with many path breaking and innovative results. Our doctors must keep themselves abreast of latest developments for the prevention, treatment and management of diabetes. I am told that DDF organizes an annual meeting every year to update doctors about advances in the prevention, treatment and management of diabetes. I believe that the medical profession is service to mankind. A doctor does not only treat a patient but is also a friend and a well wisher. It is for us to listen to medical advice to have healthy lives.

It is rightly said "Swastha tan mein swastha man" - a healthy body has a healthy mind. Success in our work, our capacity to contribute to the welfare of society and to the growth of the nation will depend on good health. Right nutrition, adequate exercise and disciplined lifestyle, is the mantra for that. I take this opportunity to wish all, happy and healthy lives.

In conclusion, I would like to convey my good wishes to the Delhi Diabetic Forum and encourage them to continue with their good work. I wish them success in their endeavours.

Thank You, 
Jai Hind.