Himachal marks Diabetes Week with focus on wellbeing

As India begins a week-long campaign starting on World Diabetes Day (November 14), this year’s focus is on holistic diabetes care — particularly in workplaces and mountain communities. Dr Kalyan Singh, MD (Medicine), DFID, speaking for the Association of Physicians of India (API), Himachal Pradesh Chapter, said the 2025 global theme, “Diabetes and Well-being: Life-course Approach,” underscores the need to look beyond glucose levels and prioritise physical health, mental resilience and preventive strategies across all stages of life.

According to the IDF Diabetes Atlas 2025, 589 million adults worldwide are living with diabetes — about one in nine people — with numbers expected to rise to 853 million by 2050. Around 43 per cent remain undiagnosed. India carries one of the highest burdens, with 90-100 million affected and nearly half unaware of their condition. Dr Singh stressed the need for early screening, stronger primary care and workplace-based prevention.

In the Himalayan region, overall diabetes prevalence is slightly lower, but rates of hypertension, central obesity and metabolic syndrome are higher. Retinopathy affects up to 18 per cent of diabetics, signalling increased cardiovascular risk. Dr Singh called for tailored strategies suited to cold climates, limited healthcare access, seasonal diets and geographic isolation.

Workplaces, he noted, are crucial for prevention. As adults spend much of their day at work, interventions such as healthier food options, routine health checks, activity breaks and stress management can have significant impact. A healthier workforce, he added, boosts productivity, reduces absenteeism and improves morale.

Prevention, Dr Singh said, must function both before and after diagnosis. Key lifestyle measures include maintaining a healthy weight and waistline, eating more vegetables, pulses and millets, exercising for 150 minutes per week, avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol and managing sleep and stress. For those diagnosed, controlling blood pressure and lipids, adhering to medication and undergoing annual eye, kidney, foot and heart screenings are essential. Foot care, balanced diets and timely vaccinations also play a role.

The API–HP Chapter has launched a state-wide awareness drive. On November 14, workplaces held screening camps and wellness pledges. From November 15-17, schools, colleges and antenatal clinics would conduct screenings and diet demonstrations. On November 18-19, mobile vans and tele-ophthalmology services will reach high-altitude areas. The campaign will conclude on 20 November with peer meetings, case reviews and a 12-month follow-up initiative in collaboration with the Health Knowledge for All NGO.

Dr Singh said diabetes affects not only clinics but entire communities. By prioritising wellbeing, he added, India can shift “from diabetes defining life to life defining diabetes.”