World Diabetes Day Ignites Community Awareness at Powerpeta UPHC
In keeping with World Diabetes Day, the Powerpeta Urban Primary Health Centre (UPHC) organized a focused awareness programme on Friday to educate residents about diabetes prevention, early detection, and healthy management. The event was led by health officials and drew participation from local residents, healthcare workers, and stakeholders who gathered to learn practical steps for reducing the risk of diabetes and its complications.
Key Address and Messages from Health Officials
District Medical & Health Officer (DM&HO) Dr. John Amrutham, speaking to the attendees, underscored the global and local impact of diabetes. He stressed that diabetes prevention starts with everyday choices—balanced meals, regular physical activity, and routine screening. Emphasizing the importance of community involvement, the officer urged residents to take advantage of UPHC services for timely blood sugar testing, lifestyle counseling, and vaccination where appropriate.
During the program, a senior clinician or health educator presented practical guidance on identifying warning signs of diabetes, such as excessive thirst, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and blurred vision. The discussion highlighted the role of lifestyle modification in delaying or preventing the onset of type 2 diabetes, as well as the need for monitoring blood glucose levels for those at high risk or with a family history of the disease.
Program Highlights and Activities
The awareness drive featured interactive sessions designed to engage participants of all ages. Demonstrations included quick risk assessment tools, guidance on reading nutrition labels, and tips for incorporating physical activity into daily routines. Free screening facilities, including blood glucose checks and counseling corners, were available to attendees, with healthcare workers ready to answer questions and provide personalized recommendations.
Educational materials were distributed, outlining simple dietary swaps, the importance of portion control, and the benefits of staying hydrated and maintaining a regular meal schedule. Health workers also addressed common myths around diabetes management, such as the misconception that only overweight individuals are at risk or that diabetes cannot be managed through lifestyle changes alone.
Why World Diabetes Day Matters at Local Health Centres
World Diabetes Day serves as a catalyst for community action and better health outcomes. At the UPHC, the outreach aligns with broader public health goals: increasing awareness, improving access to screening, and fostering a supportive environment for those who already live with diabetes. Early detection and consistent management can prevent or delay serious complications such as heart disease, kidney problems, and vision loss, which makes local health initiatives like this essential for long-term well-being.
Community Response and Next Steps
Attendees expressed appreciation for the information shared and the opportunity to discuss personal health concerns with medical professionals in a convenient setting. Health centre officials announced follow-up clinics and drop-in sessions for further education, as well as reminders about maintaining healthy habits through the upcoming festive season when lifestyle patterns often change.
Residents are encouraged to continue engaging with UPHC services, schedule regular screening, and participate in future health drives. The World Diabetes Day observance at Powerpeta UPHC stands as a reminder that diabetes prevention and care are most effective when communities collaborate with healthcare providers to sustain healthy living at the local level.
