A rapid rise in the prevalence of diabetes has been recorded in Sri Lanka over the past two decades. A study conducted in Colombo a few years ago and an on-going study has shown a prevalence of over 25 percent in Colombo. If urgent action is not taken diabetes will become a major health crisis in Sri Lanka, Senior Lecturer in Medicine attached to the University of Colombo and Consultant Endocrinologist and Diabetologist Dr.Prasad Katulanda said.
According to Dr. Katulanda the main event to celebrate the Wold Diabetes day this year will be held today at Green Path, Colombo 7 (in front of Nelum Pokuna) from 7.30 am to 12.00 noon. The event will include an exhibition and a health-screening program.
In addition to the main event a ‘Diabetes Week’ will be launched and 36 satellite programs will be conducted in 36 main towns in the country. These will include diabetes and complications screening, health education seminars, exhibitions and mini walks, he said.
The events have been organised by the Non Communicable Disease Unit of the Ministry of Health, Sri Lanka Diabetes Federation, Sri Lanka College of Endocrinologists and the International Lions Club to educate and draw the attention of the public on the prevention and care of diabetes, he said.
Free Tee shirts will be provided for the first 1,000 participants.