Don't scoff at the statistics. According to Dr S K Minocha, head of the department of Internal Medicine at Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, "Diabetes is reaching epidemic proportions. It is only through promoting awareness through education that this epidemic can be controlled in India."

People with uncontrolled diabetes are more likely to suffer from heart attacks, frequent infections, eye problems, sexual dysfunction, kidney disease and nerve damage. 75-80 per cent of Indians suffer from type 2 diabetes, which is a late onset diabetes. "It is caused by a recessive gene, which is obviously hereditary in nature. Add a sedentary lifestyle and no exercise, and you have the perfect environment for the diabetes seed to flourish," explains Dr Minocha.

Tension also contributes to diabetes. Stress, whether due to a heart attack, pregnancy or even an infection, can lead to the production of hormones that increase the sugar level in the body, and thereon to diabetes, which is a permanent feature.

So, what can you do to prevent diabetes in your future? Eat only when you are hungry. Small, frequent meals, with lots of fibre, are what Dr Minocha recommends. Diet, drugs and exercise are important, but more important are an ordered lifestyle and balanced food intake.

Diet becomes even more vital when you consider that an increasing number of children are becoming victims of diabetes and the accusing finger is being pointed at faulty lifestyles. "Out of the 30 million diabetic patients in the country, 15 per cent are children and the prominent reasons are the colas and junk food they consume," points out Poonam Chiblani of the Homeopathic Department at Sadhu Vasvani Hospital.

There being no cure for diabetes, except genetic engineering or a pancreatic implant, Dr Minocha suggests a walk of a minimum five kilometres for at least 45 minutes a day, five days of the week, but this is dependent on the weight, height and gender of the person. He suggests the emphasis be more on anaerobic exercises like swimming, cycling and walking. Those who have been advised not to exercise should control their diet or take up Yoga or meditation.

Care of the feet assumes great significance for a diabetic person as the excessive blood sugar provides a good breeding ground for bacteria to grow. This can eventually lead to death of the tissue.

Diabetic? Live healthyÎ