Suwa Diviya hosted the ‘Unmask Diabetes’ event at the Sri Lanka Foundation Institute during World Diabetes Month. Drawing an enthusiastic crowd of over 300 participants, it served as a platform advocating proactive steps in managing diabetes. Suwa Diviya is a non-profit organisation committed to raising awareness about diabetes, focusing on preventing and managing diabetes.
Diabetes has grown into an alarming epidemic in Sri Lanka. One in 4 persons is grappling with diabetes, while an additional 30 percent teeter on the brink as prediabetes. What’s more concerning is the rapid rise of diabetes among urban youth, with the age of onset steadily decreasing, while the sedentary lifestyles they lead further aggravate the situation, with direct implications for the workforce. A significant proportion of those suffering from diabetes, about 1 million people, remain unaware of their condition.
The chief guest, a renowned endocrinologist and President of the College of Endocrinologists Dr. Dimuthu Muthukuda delivered the keynote address. Dr. Muthukuda engaged the audience in a comprehensive exploration of the multifaceted aspects of diabetes. She explained to the audience why diabetes is referred to as the silent killer and stressed the need for heightened awareness.
Critical ailments
She discussed the association with critical ailments such as heart attacks, kidney failure and the severity of the illness. Her discourse aimed to dispel misconceptions and provide clarity. She stressed the significance of understanding sugar level readings and emphasized lifestyle choices for effective diabetes control. Dr. Muthukuda’s comprehensive talk highlighted the importance of holistic well-being, equipping the audience with valuable insights for a healthier, more informed life.
The forum also hosted a panel discussion comprising a distinguished and diverse panel of specialists, including Dr. Dimuthu Muthukuda, Dr. D.K.D. Mathew – Consultant General Practitioner; Dr. Amila De Silva – Consultant Eye Surgeon; Dr. Chandrika Ponnamperuma – Consultant Cardiologist; Dr. Udana Rathnapala – Consultant Nephrologist; and Dr. Renuka Jayatissa – Consultant Nutritionist.
During the engaging Q&A session, the panel addressed many queries from participants. These ranged from the intricacies of insulin intake and the effects of prescribed medications on organs, particularly the kidneys, and important nutrition tips, to identifying symptoms and taking timely action.
