India maintains its unfortunate position as the global diabetes capital, with cases steadily climbing among both adults and younger populations. This escalating health crisis demands urgent attention and proactive care strategies from both healthcare providers and the general public.
Holistic Approach to Diabetes Control
During recent panel discussions at the TOI Medithon, renowned diabetes specialists and endocrinologists from premier healthcare institutions across India gathered to share their extensive clinical experience and research insights. The consensus emphasized that effective diabetes management requires a comprehensive strategy beyond mere medication.
Dr. V. Mohan, Chairman of Dr. Mohan's Diabetes Specialities Centre, introduced the comprehensive A, B, C, D framework for diabetes care. "Diabetes management isn't just about controlling sugar levels; it's about achieving overall health balance," he explained. His approach encompasses A for A1c (blood glucose control), B for blood pressure, C for cholesterol, and D for discipline - the crucial element that binds together proper diet, regular exercise, quality sleep, and consistent medical follow-ups.
Dr. Sanjay Kalra, a consultant endocrinologist, emphasized dietary balance rather than elimination. He recommended portion-controlled consumption of traditional staples like rice and roti while ensuring adequate intake of complex carbohydrates, proteins, fiber, and healthy fats.
Completing the wellness triad, Dr. S. K. Wangnoo from Apollo Hospital highlighted the critical connection between mental health and blood glucose levels. Stress and anxiety can elevate cortisol, subsequently raising blood sugar levels, making meditation, adequate rest, and emotional stability equally important as medical treatment.
Family Support and Myth Busting
The role of family in diabetes management emerged as a crucial factor for successful outcomes. Dr. Adylene Reena Solomon explained that families provide essential emotional and practical support through medication reminders, blood sugar monitoring assistance, and clinic visit companionship. However, she cautioned against overbearing behavior, suggesting that encouragement proves more effective than criticism.
Dr. Ghurulakshmi Moorthy detailed how families can support through meal planning and grocery choices. Stocking low-glycemic foods, preparing balanced meals collectively, and maintaining regular eating schedules create an environment where the person with diabetes feels motivated rather than isolated.
The expert panels also addressed persistent diabetes myths that continue to mislead the public. Dr. Umesh Kumar Garg clarified that feeling fine doesn't indicate controlled blood sugar, as diabetes often remains asymptomatic until advanced stages. Nearly half of patients show no symptoms despite dangerously high glucose levels.
Dr. Amit Rastogi dispelled the misconception that eating sweets directly causes diabetes, explaining that excessive sugar intake primarily aggravates risk factors like obesity and insulin resistance. He advocated mindful, moderate eating instead of complete restriction.
Dr. Hameed Ashraf emphasized that diabetes represents a systemic metabolic disorder rather than merely a "sugar problem." The condition damages both small and large blood vessels, leading to serious complications including heart disease, kidney damage, and vision impairment.
Understanding Risks and Complications
The final panel focused on recognizing diabetes risks and preventing devastating complications. Dr. Uday Phadke revealed that 85-90% of patients remain asymptomatic despite elevated sugar levels, often delaying diagnosis until significant damage has occurred.
Dr. Mohan Magdum explained the biological mechanism where high glucose binds to proteins, creating harmful compounds that damage blood vessels. This process leads to microvascular complications affecting eyes (retinopathy), kidneys (nephropathy), and nerves (neuropathy), along with macrovascular complications causing heart attacks and strokes.
Dr. Hemant Phatale provided a vivid analogy, comparing diabetes-related vascular damage to rust corroding metal. Over time, fat accumulates inside damaged arteries, creating blockages that result in coronary artery disease - one of the most fatal diabetes complications.
Across all discussions, a unified message emerged: diabetes management constitutes a lifelong partnership between patients, families, and healthcare providers. Successful control combines disciplined lifestyle choices, emotional balance, supportive relationships, and regular medical monitoring. As Dr. V. Mohan summarized, "With the right lifestyle, discipline, and mindset, diabetes can be managed, its complications prevented, and life lived to the fullest."
