World Diabetes Day 2025: Emphasise Prevention, Awareness, and Lifestyle Management

The session featured Dr. Sunil Gupta and Dr. Kavita Gupta, who provided detailed guidance on diabetes awareness, prevention, and long-term management. Dr. Sunil Gupta explained the historical significance of the discovery of insulin by Frederick Banting and highlighted how insulin transformed the lives of people with Type 1 diabetes. He stressed that type 2 diabetes is largely a lifestyle-related condition and warned that India is facing an epidemic, with nearly one in four adults (above 18 years age) are affected by diabetes or prediabetes, so called dysglycemia. He emphasised early screening, weight control, regular exercise, stress management, and avoidance of tobacco and alcohol to prevent complications such as heart disease, stroke, retinopathy, kidney failure, and limb amputations. Dr. Sunil Gupta also discussed the concepts of primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention, stating that many diabetes-related complications are preventable through timely intervention and awareness. He explained the differences between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, and recent advances aimed at delaying the onset of Type 1 diabetes. Responding to audience queries, Dr. Kavita Gupta highlighted the importance of balanced nutrition in children and adolescents, regular meal timing, reduced screen time, and physical activity. She explained early warning signs of diabetes in children while answering one query she advised to stop using sugar, jaggery, or honey, as they all raise blood glucose levels. The programme concluded with a strong message that diabetes can be prevented and controlled through disciplined lifestyle choices, awareness, and community support. Expert- Dr Sunil Gupta & Dr Kavita Gupta Anchor- Purva Kulkarni Podcast: 14/11/2025 Recorded at: Akashwani Nagpur Episode: 104