Apollo Hospitals, Sheshadripuram, organised a walkathon on Sunday called "Walk Madi Diabetes Solisi’ to create awareness and encourage people to follow an active lifestyle to reduce the risk of diabetes. The walkathon began at the Apollo Hospital in Seshadripuram at 6:00 a.m. and concluded on the grounds of Malleswaram Government School.
The event was graced by Shri Dinesh Gundu Rao, Member of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly. Over 1000 people participated in the walkathon and completed the 5 km walk. Furthermore, free diabetes screening was also conducted by the hospital for participants.
India is home to the world’s second largest adult diabetes population. According to the ICMR, diabetes cases in India have increased by 150%. Covid lockdown and sedentary lifestyle has spurred the disease among people.
Diabetes is a silent killer, as its symptoms appear quite late, when the blood sugar levels are high. If it is not diagnosed early and managed with medication and lifestyle changes, it may lead to stroke, heart attack, kidney failure, blindness, and even premature death.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Uday, COO, Apollo Hospitals, Sheshadripuram said, “We aim to encourage people to walk every day for at least 30 minutes. Walking not only helps keep a check on diabetes but also addresses other diseases like obesity, stress, hypertension, etc.
Diabetes is manageable with the right treatment and of course walking, it is the best exercise for a diabetic patient. We want to thank everyone who participated in the walkathon for their tremendous support.”
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Manish, Mattoo, CEO, Apollo Hospitals, Karnataka region said, “We are overwhelmed to see the support and response from people for the walkathon organised to raise awareness on Diabetes.
It was an effort to urge people to start walking frequently and avoid developing diabetes. I congratulate everyone on completing the 5 km walkathon."The Apollo Hospitals Walkathon, themed ‘Walk Madi Diabetes Solisi’ was organised along the lines of World Diabetes Day, held on November 14.
Following the theme of "access to diabetes education" this year, the hospital has also arranged for free diabetes check-ups during the event. The random test will help identify people who are at higher risk of getting diabetes or pre – diabetic.